Shine So Bright

You know summer’s the perfect time to switch to flip-flops, but did you know it’s also the right time to change your diet? Being outdoors more often and sweating ups your risk for health problems such as dehydration, skin sensitivities, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. 1. Tomatoes While tomatoes are filled with antioxidants and Vitamin C, they also contain beneficial phytochemicals such as lycopene, which contribute to chronic diseases especially cancer. 2. Zucchini Part of the summer squash family, zucchini contains a fiber called pectin, which is linked to increasing heart health and lowering cholesterol. 3. Watermelon As its name implies, this fruit is a hydration hero, and fluids are exactly what you need when the heat is on. 4. Oranges The sweet citrus fruit is rich in potassium, a nutrient that’s crucial in the summer. Oranges are also about 80% water, so popping a few juicy slices will keep you hydrated during your sweatiest summer days. 5. Yogurt Yogurt adds a dose

Berry and Yogurt Smoothie Here’s a simple and delicious smoothie for the morning rush. Blend frozen fruit (banana and berries work well) with Greek yogurt and a liquid of your choice (milk, juice, coconut water-whatever you like). Quinoa Fruit Salad Spice up a plain old fruit cup with a scoop of quinoa. Toss the whole shebang around until the quinoa is evenly distributed. Add a dressing of honey, lime, and basil for a little extra body. Chocolate Quinoa Breakfast Bowl Here’s a healthy way to have chocolate for breakfast. A bowlful of quinoa makes for a filling, protein-rich base, and the banana and berries add a few servings of fruit. Warm Fruit Bowl Craving dessert for breakfast? Or breakfast for dessert? This gluten-free bowl should hit the spot. Simply bake a berry blend in the oven, sprinkle with dark chocolate shavings, and add a cup of milk. Coconut Yogurt Quinoa Muffins By this point, it’s probably obvious we think quinoa makes anything better. So when it comes to muffins? It