It happens this time every year. Just as sure as spring rain comes, so does the ambition to look good in a bikini. Is it just us or is the pressure a bit overwhelming?
Looking good in a swimsuit isn’t a bad goal. In fact, it can help us shed unwanted pounds and even shape up quicker than we would otherwise. But being healthy and fit should always trump what size your clothes are, or in this case, your swimsuit.
For most, the goal isn’t looking like Heidi Klum when we hit the pool. The goal is to feel good about ourselves in a swimsuit if we happen upon the beach or a pool this summer. The key to getting there? Setting realistic goals and mapping out a plan to get there.
We asked health and fitness expert Stephanie Mansour of Step It Up With Steph to share five diet tips on how to get bikini ready quickly and effectively while keeping a healthy perspective on body image. Here’s what she had to say.
1. Avoid dairy, as it is an inflammatory ingredient and can cause stomach bloating. We all know bloat is one of the quickest confidence killers out there.
2. Avoid gluten for the same reasons. Some healthy gluten free alternatives include rice, certified gluten free rolled oats, millet and quinoa.
3. Drink tons of water to flush out toxins, reduce inflammation, bloating, and help clear up skin.
4. Eat every 3-4 hours for more energy. The more energy you have, the better you will feel about yourself and your body.
5. Avoid artificial sweeteners and processed foods. Stick to whole foods and ingredients that you can pronounce!
In all this, remember to focus on your body and no one else’s. “If you are confident and comfortable in your own skin, this will radiate more than the ‘perfect’ butt or toned mid-section,” said Stephanie. “Even if you are not 100% happy with your body, you can still be changing your body while accepting your body the way it is.”
To feel confident in your body during swimsuit season and beyond, Stephanie recommends focusing on parts of yourself that you’re already 100% happy with. “The more positive energy you put towards your body, the more positive things you’ll want to do for yourself,” she said. “When you accept and like your body, you will do good things for your body.”
Also Read:
7 Simple Ways to Beat Bloating
Sweet ‘n Sad: Artificial Sweeteners Linked to Depression Risk