Avoid Summer Weight Gain

Most people know to be prepared to fight weight gain in the winter, when the holidays and decreased activity can lead to a few extra pounds. But summer -- with its backyard barbecues, s'mores around the campfire, and yummy ice cream treats -- can also be a diet-sabotaging season if you're not careful. Here are a few tips to help avoid weight gain this summer:

• Get active on vacation. Summer is a great time for hanging by the pool or relaxing on the beach, but try not to spend your entire vacation sitting around. Go for a swim, try kayaking, run on the beach, or take a hike -- anything that will get you burning calories.
• Use portion control. Many summer activities, like picnics and barbecues, revolve around an unlimited spread of food. Be smart when you're at these types of events. Don't overload your plate. Resist the temptation to go back for seconds. Make spending time with family and friends your focus, not the food.
• Beat the heat. Don't let the hot weather be an excuse not to exercise. Do your runs early in the morning or late in the evening, and make sure that you're staying hydrated on the run. If it's too hot and humid to run outside, move your runs indoors to the treadmill or try a different activity, like swimming.

More:

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