Summer is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about your bikini body. If you’re like most people, you probably want to look your best at the beach or pool this year.

Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to get yourself in shape and feeling confident in your swimsuit. One of the most important things is to adopt a healthy diet that will help you shed any extra pounds and tone your muscles.

1. Get protein at every meal

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for building muscle. If you want to get toned and firm, you need to make sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet.

Aim to have some form of protein at every meal, whether it’s eggs for breakfast, chicken breast for lunch, or fish for dinner.

2. Choose complex carbs

When it comes to carbs, not all are created equal. Simple carbs like white bread and sugary snacks can cause blood sugar spikes and leave you feeling hungry again soon after eating.

On the other hand, complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide lasting energy and keep you feeling full longer.

3. Limit sugar

Sugar is a major culprit when it comes to weight gain and can also cause inflammation in the body. Try to limit your intake of sugar and sugary foods, including desserts, candy, and soda.

If you do have a sweet tooth, opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of processed sugars.

4. Eat healthy fats

Fat is an important part of any healthy diet, but it’s important to choose the right kinds of fats.

Healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil can boost your metabolism and keep you feeling full, while unhealthy fats found in fried foods and butter can lead to weight gain and health problems.

5. Drink plenty of water

Drinking enough water is essential for staying hydrated and can also help you feel full. Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and consider carrying a water bottle with you throughout the day to ensure you’re staying hydrated.

6. Watch your portion sizes

One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to lose weight is eating too much, even if they’re eating healthy foods. It’s important to watch your portion sizes and pay attention to how much you’re eating.

Use smaller plates, measuring cups, and food scales to help you stay on track.

7. Have healthy snacks on hand

When hunger strikes, it’s easy to reach for a bag of chips or a candy bar. But having healthy snacks on hand can help you avoid these temptations and stay on track with your diet. Choose snacks like fresh fruit, carrots and hummus, or a handful of nuts.

8. Focus on whole foods

Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are packed with nutrients and are generally lower in calories and fat than processed foods. Make an effort to fill your plate with whole foods and try to minimize your intake of processed foods.

9. Don’t be too restrictive

While it’s important to make healthy choices, it’s also important to not be too restrictive or hard on yourself. Allow yourself the occasional treat or cheat meal, and give yourself permission to enjoy your favorite foods in moderation.

This can help you stay motivated and avoid feeling deprived.

10. Stay consistent

Finally, one of the most important things when it comes to diet is consistency. Stay committed to a healthy diet and make it a habit, and you’ll start to see results.

Keep in mind that there are no quick fixes or magic solutions – the key is to make healthy choices a part of your everyday life.