10 WAYS TO EAT BETTER THIS SUMMER

With fruit and veggies in abundance, it's easy to pack in the nutrition during the warmer months! Here are registered dietitian Lola Biggs' top ways to fine-tune your diet

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EAT THE RAINBOW

Eating a variety of brightly coloured fruit and veggies every day means that you get all those essential nutrients. Red foods such as strawberries, red peppers, tomatoes, beetroots and cherries all contain lycopene, which can improve heart health and increase brain function. Greens such as avocados, kale, spinach, broccoli and kiwis are full of antioxidants, potassium, vitamin K and fibre, while yellow and orange fruits and veggies are packed with carotenoids. Eating oranges, squash and pumpkin, carrots, sweet potatoes, mangos and pineapples can boost the immune system, improve vision and reduce inflammation.

STAY HYDRATED

In the summer heat, you lose more water through sweating, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated. Aim for eight glasses of water a day. To make it more interesting, try infusing it with mint, cucumber or slices of citrus fruits to boost flavour. Ditch the sugary drinks and sip on coconut water instead as it helps rehydrate and replenish electrolytes.

GET GRILLING

The healthier way to cook, and perfect for summer barbecue season, grilled foods often retain nutrients more than other cooking methods. Create quick, easy, tasty and healthy filling salads and Buddha bowls using lightly grilled peppers, courgettes, broccoli and asparagus. Add some protein-rich chickpeas, fish or chicken, and wholegrains such as brown rice or quinoa. Finish off with some healthy fats such as avocado, seeds and tahini.