By Sofia Segounis, Nutritionist

As the days get warmer, it is only natural that we start to think about summer. Are you cringing at the thought of putting on a bikini? With just a little hard work and dedication we can help you get your body into shape for the beach. Whether you just want to tone up or shed a few pounds, Truestar can help you do it with just three easy steps.

Healthy eating
The food we eat is very important in managing our weight. Eating in hormonal balance helps to improve energy levels and promotes weight loss. Eating in caloric balance means eating just the right number of calories for you.

So what exactly should you be eating?

Consume carbohydrates that are high in fiber. Choose fruits and vegetables more often and choose whole grains rather than refined and over processed grains. Carbohydrates should be 40% of your total calories; they will not cause you to gain weight if you eat the right amount and from the right sources. Click here to learn more about healthy carbohydrates.

Include lean protein at every meal. Good sources include fish, skinless chicken, soy, lowfat dairy products and legumes. Protein should make up 30% of your total calories.

Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil, flax oil, fish oils, nuts, seeds and avocados, as part of every meal. Avoid the bad fats: saturated and trans fats. Fats should make up 30% of your total calories.

Drink plenty of water. Water helps your body eliminate waste. Avoid caffeinated beverages such as coffee and colas; caffeine is a diuretic and will dehydrate you. Try drinking green tea or a glass of fresh water instead. Green tea is also known to aid in weight loss and will give you the energy boost you’re looking for.

It is important to eat three meals and two snacks per day. This will help control your blood sugar levels and prevent you from overeating at your next meal.

Exercise
A successful and lasting weight loss program includes regular exercise. You should incorporate both cardio and strength training for optimal results. Cardiovascular exercise burns more calories while you are working out; strength training tones and defines your body while increasing your metabolism, helping you burn calories while you are at rest.

For a quick and effective workout, click here. For more information on getting fit in a short period of time, visit Emergency Downsizing—3 weeks to a better body.

Supplements
There are certain supplements that help with weight loss. The focus of our supplement plan for weight loss is stabilizing blood sugars and stimulating the metabolic rate. View the Truestar Supplement Plan for Weight Loss.

In a nutshell

• Eat healthy
• Exercise regularly
• Take your supplements

A bikini body should not be something you start to think about when summer is nearing or when you are planning a getaway, it should be a goal that you work toward all year long. For a weight loss program designed specifically for you, click here.