FITNESS

(StatePoint) Summer means BBQs, beach time and swimsuits, but it could also mean ditching your workout routines and healthy eating habits you’ve been working hard to maintain.

“A healthy lifestyle is just that -- a lifestyle -- and can definitely be attainable all year long with the right tools,” says Mandi Knowles, dietitian for South Beach Diet.

With these simple slim down tips and tricks from Knowles, you can stay on the weight loss track and keep up your healthy routine this summer and beyond.

• Eat before you go out: Don’t skip breakfast or your mid-morning snack. Eat plenty of nutritious, high-fiber foods all throughout the day and you’ll be less likely to over-indulge.

• Have fruit for dessert: Delicious fruit is in season, so chose some fresh blueberries, peaches or strawberries and make fruit smoothies a daily staple.

• Stick to your routine: On vacations and weekends it’s easy to spiral away from good habits. To avoid a weight loss setback, try sticking to your weekday routine.

• Lighten up recipes: Use whole-grain pasta, olive oil, herbs and lemon juice to make pasta salad. Try sweet potatoes, turnips and Greek yogurt in potato salad. Use lean ground beef for burgers and skip the bun.

• Get moving: Make time to take walks around the neighborhood, go for a swim, hike with friends or even do yoga in the park.

Even if you’re not at your goal weight, don’t let that stop you. By making smart choices this summer, you can live a healthier lifestyle and feel confident in your summer wardrobe.