Welcome, Summer Solstice!

While it may feel like summer is here by the looks of the thermometer, summer doesn’t officially roll in until the solstice. This year, summer solstice falls on June 21st. After a winter filled with comfort foods and hibernation, people are understandably anxious to don a pair of shorts, let alone slither into a bathing suit. Often times, they rely on fad diets as the ‘go to’ for quick weight loss.

One of the latest crazes is the gluten- free diet. This diet plan is indicated for people that have digestive disorders, such as celiac disease or non-gluten sensitivity, and is not intended for weight loss. Healthy eating, balance, moderation, and regular exercise are the key components for successful weight loss and maintaining that weight loss.

Summer is a great time for beaching and BBQ’s. Below are some things to keep in mind for preparing for beach and BBQ’s with your friends and family that will help everyone practice balanced eating and drinking throughout the summer.

· Keep the Fluids Flowing - Proper body hydration is even more essential when engaging in outdoor events this time of the year. During hot, summer days combat fluid loss by sipping on your favorites throughout the day. Remember that all beverages hydrate so when you are hosting a gathering, make sure to offer a variety of options including:  party punches with colorful, bobbing fruits; sparkling water, like Dasani; diet soda; or unsweetened iced tea are great low-or-no calorie options. Of course water always works but sometimes it can get boring. In this case, look to vitaminwater zero drops to add as much or as little flavor as you wish.  There are a variety of flavors to choose from and make sure you have plenty of lemon and lime slices on hand for garnish!

· Party Platter: Caprese can double as an appetizer or salad and is easy to prepare. Slice up some tomatoes, layer with fresh mozzarella, sprinkle with basil leaves, and drizzle olive oil on top, and you have a platter packed with protein and anti-oxidants.

· Grillin’ Greats: Turkey burgers or sliders are a lower fat alternative to beef. It may need some spicing up; try mixing in a few tablespoons of salsa for zest. I love tang, so I mix Buffalo wing sauce with blue cheese dressing and use a dollop under the bun instead of ketchup. Just warn your guests there may a kick to this accompaniment!

· Sensational Sides: Coleslaw is high in fiber and is a low calorie option to potato chips when served with burgers. Cut the fat calories by substituting half of the mayonnaise in the recipe with plain, low fat Greek yogurt. Mix in plump raisins or diced apples to add natural sweetness.

· Cool Treats: Who doesn’t have childhood memories of running after the ice cream truck as it rolled into their neighborhood on hot summer nights? Replicating some nostalgic icy treats will surely be a big hit of the party. They aren’t just kid pleasers; adults love them, too! There are a ton of lower fat recipes to make these homemade “stick-sicles.” If that’s too much work, cut up some watermelon and serve with sorbet, sherbet, or nonfat frozen yogurt.

Whether you are a guest or a host, there are always lots of great ideas to make a summer gathering fun and healthy for one and all.

Surfs up! Enjoy the summer!

Sophia Kamveris is a registered dietitian in private practice and consults for the food and beverage companies, including The Coca-Cola Company.