Simple health tricks everyone should try this summer

We often spend a lot of time thinking about calorie and fat content this time of year, but it’s important to think about where your food is coming from, too. Eating locally-produced foods that are in season means you know produce is its freshest and has lost fewer nutrients in transit before getting to your fork. Mangoes, bananas, avocados, peas and zucchini are at their best this time of year, so load up your plate and dig in.

Staying hydrated is a key health concern as the weather warms up. Keeping your water intake up (at least eight glasses a day) not only maintains healthy brain and cell function, but it also helps replenish skin tissues and flush out toxins — so your complexion looks and feels hydrated. A great way to have fresh, cooling water on hand is to keep a BRITA Fill & Enjoy Fun Jug in the door of your fridge. It filters tap water to remove the taste of added chemicals such as chlorine while giving you instant access to a chilled drink whenever you need it.

We all know the importance of following a diet that’s high in veg, but it can be harder to get into the habit of vegetables throughout the day. Summer’s the perfect time to ease yourself into a new eating regime as new fruits and veg come into season. Try mixing up your menu to avoid boredom — even opting for veg such as spinach, avocado and asparagus with eggs for breakfast, as well as taking raw cauliflower and carrot to work to snack on during the day.

Refreshing, hydrating twists on traditional ice blocks are totally on trend right now (and they’re certainly not just for the kids). Have fun creating your own unique flavours by filling ice block moulds with different pulped fruit and veg such as mango, blueberries, spinach, kale and avo and mixing with a splash of filtered water. These frozen delights will be perfect when those ice cream cravings hit, plus you’ll be getting a nutrient boost as well.

Party season has the power to derail even the most robust of healthy intentions, but there are ways to minimise the effects of a festive night out. Start by planning what you eat carefully before the party (especially if you know it’s going to be canapes only). Eating a small meal or snack that contains protein, good fats and carbs gives your body something to digest and slows down the speed your blood alcohol level goes up. Salmon and avocado on wholemeal crackers or a wrap would be a smart choice, as it’s a great combo of good fats as well as vitamin B12, which can be depleted when consuming alcohol. Staying hydrated during and after the party is a must, too, and there’s nothing better for that than a chilled glass of H2O.

Taking water to the gym or out on a run is a given, especially during the summer months. No one likes to let dehydration ruin their workout. But did you know it’s also important to hydrate properly before you exercise as well? The recommended pre-workout water intake is drinking 500mls about two to three hours before you plan to exercise, then another 250mls around 20 to 30 minutes before, and then 150-250 mls for every 15 to 20 minutes of exercise, depending on how hard you’re working (and how much you’re sweating). (Brought to you by BRITA fill&go Active).