By Dr. Joey Shulman DC, RNCP

It’s here—sunshine, bikinis, barbeque parties and beer! While many think that sunny weather only leads to more tempting foods and weight grain, it doesn’t have to. In fact, summertime is the perfect time of year to jumpstart your weight loss program. The key to success is finding the perfect program that fits your dietary likes and dislikes, lifestyle and activity level. If it does not “fit” for you, it will result in frustration and weight gain. Instead of covering up those tummies, arms and thighs this summer, follow the simple steps outlined below and begin enjoying the warmer weather and the thinner looking you!

Step 1: Pick a program
With a sea of weight loss programs available, we are often confused by all the mixed nutritional messages we hear. High protein? Low carbohydrate? Shake for breakfast? It is not uncommon for people to fall into a trap of yo-yo dieting by following the latest fad diet.

Let’s face it—not every program will work for every person. This is why at Truestar, we offer a variety of meal plans and weight loss options to fit your specific needs. Our two most popular programs are the Metabolic Booster Plan (Phase I) and the Continuum Weight Loss Plan (Phase II).

The Metabolic Booster Plan is higher in protein than our other plans and will reap quick and safe weight loss results (approximately two to six pounds per week). The Continuum Weight Loss Plan is based on a 40:30:30 ratio and is a more gradual approach to weight loss (approximately two pounds per week). We recommend giving your metabolic system a boost by starting with Phase I for a six-week period and then switching to Phase II if desired.

Step 2: Lean on our meal plans
A common complaint I hear from people attempting to lose weight is, “I don’t know what to eat” or “I am sick of eating the same thing over and over again”. The best solution is to fill out a personalized weight loss profile and design meal plans according to your dietary likes and dislikes. Whether you are a vegetarian, a meat eater, have a nut allergy or are sensitive to wheat, there are literally thousands of meal plan options to choose from. Click here to start your personal weight loss profile.

Once you have designed your own meal plans, use them as meal and snack staples and as options for when you dine out of the house. If you eat away from home often, there are healthier fast-food options that can be a part of your weight loss plan. Visit the Truestar Approved Fast-Food Options for more information.

Step 3: Pay attention to the shift in your appetite
Warm weather tends to change our pattern of eating in terms of the quantity and types of food we eat. No longer are we drawn towards soups, stews and chili. Instead, most of us feel the desire to eat fresh salads, smoothies, BBQ options and fresh fruit. Pay attention to this internal shift and go with it. Summertime foods, such as the vegetables found in salads and berries in smoothies, have a lower glycemic index rating necessary for weight loss.

Appetite also tends to drop as the temperature rises. For optimal digestion and weight loss results, eat slowly and eat until you are sufficiently sufficed, not stuffed. For some tasty options, visit the Top 5 Light and Easy Summer Meals.

Step 4: Mix up your exercise routine!
The summertime affords people the opportunity to switch up their exercise routine and have some fun. Take advantage of the great weather by walking, running or cycling outside, playing a racquet sport or inline skating. To lose weight and feel great, you need a minimum of 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise four to five times per week. It is best to combine cardiovascular exercise with a weight lifting regime for strength and toning two to three times per week. Complete the Truestar Exercise Profile to design the perfect program for you!

Step 5: Use safe supplements
Supplements are an effective part of weight loss programs for those with a sluggish metabolic system from years of yo-yo dieting or being overweight and for those wishing to lose weight quickly and safely. When picking supplements for weight loss, it is critical to have two elements in mind:

1. The quality, and
2. The safety of the supplement.

Our Truestar Professional Series weight loss supplements are completely natural, safe and have been designed with the top ingredients available. To learn more, please visit our TrueLEAN information page.

Start implementing these steps today and you will be guaranteed a slimmer swimsuit body that will last all year long!