Summer is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities, but it can also be a trap for those who want to stay fit and healthy. With all of the barbecues, picnics, and outdoor events, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits.

Here are some of the most common nutritional traps of summer and how to avoid them:.

Trap #1: Too Much Fried Food

Barbecues and fairs offer a variety of fried food options, including fried chicken, fries, and even fried vegetables. While these foods may be delicious, they are not exactly healthy.

Fried food is high in saturated and trans fats, which can lead to high cholesterol, heart disease, and other health problems.

Sidestep this trap by opting for grilled or baked options instead of fried. You can also try air frying instead of deep frying to cut down on the amount of oil used.

Additionally, try to limit your consumption of fried foods to just a few times per month.

Trap #2: Overindulging in Alcohol

Summertime is a time for parties and outdoor events, which often involve alcohol. While it’s okay to enjoy a drink or two, overindulging can have serious consequences for your health.

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, high blood pressure, and other health problems.

To sidestep this trap, limit your alcohol consumption to just a few drinks per week. When you do drink, try to stick to lower calorie options like light beer or wine spritzers.

Also, be sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid overindulging.

Trap #3: Eating Too Many Processed Snacks

Summer is a time for snacking, but many of the options available at convenience stores and gas stations are highly processed and loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. These snacks can lead to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.

Sidestep this trap by preparing your own healthy snacks ahead of time. Some good options include fresh fruit, vegetable sticks with hummus, and homemade trail mix.

When you do need to grab something on the go, opt for healthier options like nuts or a protein bar.

Trap #4: Skipping Meals

With so much going on in the summer, it can be easy to forget to eat or skip meals altogether. However, skipping meals can actually be detrimental to your health and can lead to overeating later on.

To avoid this trap, make sure to eat three regular meals per day and plan ahead for snacks if you will be out and about for an extended period of time. This will help keep your hunger levels in check and prevent overeating later on.

Trap #5: Ice Cream Overload

Ice cream is a summertime favorite, but it can also be a major nutritional trap. Many types of ice cream are high in sugar and saturated fat, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.

Sidestep this trap by opting for lighter options like frozen yogurt or sorbet. You can also try making your own healthy ice cream at home using ingredients like bananas and almond milk.

Trap #6: Too Much Fast Food

Fast food is a convenient option when you are on the go, but it can also be a major nutritional trap. Many fast food options are high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium.

To avoid this trap, try to plan ahead and bring your own healthy snacks or meals when you will be out and about for an extended period of time. If you do need to grab a quick bite, opt for healthier options like grilled chicken or a salad.

Trap #7: Overeating at Buffets

Buffets are a popular option at summer events, but they can also be a trap for those who want to stay healthy. With so many options available, it can be easy to overeat and consume too many calories.

To avoid this trap, start by filling your plate with healthy options like vegetables and lean proteins. Try to limit your intake of high calorie options like fried foods or desserts.

Additionally, be mindful of portion sizes and take smaller portions to prevent overeating.

Trap #8: Too Many Sugary Drinks

Summertime beverages like soda, lemonade, and sweet tea can be loaded with sugar and empty calories. Consuming too many sugary drinks can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems.

To sidestep this trap, opt for healthier drink options like water, unsweetened tea, or fruit-infused water. You can also try making your own healthy drinks at home using fresh fruits and herbs.

Trap #9: Too Many Processed Meats

Summer barbecues often feature processed meats like hot dogs, sausages, and burgers. These meats are often high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems if consumed in excess.

To sidestep this trap, try to limit your consumption of processed meats and opt for lean proteins like chicken or fish instead.

You can also try making your own veggie burgers or other meat alternatives at home to control the ingredients and reduce the amount of processed foods in your diet.

Trap #10: Not Enough Fresh Produce

With so many tempting treats available in the summer, it can be easy to forget about the importance of fresh produce in your diet. Fruits and vegetables are essential for good health and can help prevent chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

To avoid this trap, make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Try to have at least one serving with each meal, and aim for a variety of colors to ensure you are getting a range of nutrients.