With these tips you get the most out of this season.

There is no season like summer. Longer days, no jacket needed, and eating in the garden. This time of year inspires plenty of reasons to be more mindful of what you eat.

Healthy picnic in the parc
Going for a picnic? Bring some healthy dishes, like a fresh salad, a fruit tray with low-fat dip, or quinoa salad. You are setting yourself up for success!

Travel snacks
Make sure to pack healthy on-the-go snacks you can enjoy while travelling. Good options include trail mix, fresh vegetables, whole-grain crackers and fresh fruit.

Keep it cool
Reduce your risk of food poisoning during these hot summer months by properly thawing your meats. Always thaw them in the refrigerator and get it out of the fridge shortly before you prepare it on the grill.

The right temperature
Use a food thermometer to ensure meat has reached a safe internal temperature. Hamburgers should be 70 ̊C and chicken should be no less than 85 ̊C.

The best of summer’s bounty
Watermelon is in season and can help satisfy your sweet tooth and helps you to take in your two portions of fruit a day. A ripe watermelon is heavy for its size, has a creamy yellow spot and sounds hollow.

Drink enough
Don’t forget to drink plenty of water on hot summer days. Add fresh citrus fruits or some frozen berries for a little twist to your traditional beverage. Also a good idea: Use sparkling water.

Summer cooking
This season invites you to try out new cooking techniques, like grilling your vegetables. Make vegetable kabobs with bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini and squash. Drizzle with olive oil and season with pepper and some salt if you like, then grill to a tender crisp.

Spice up your salad
A fruit salad becomes extra special when you add some honey, fresh mint and vanilla bean.

Flavour yes, salt no
Eating less salt is better for your kidneys. And when you use fresh herbs, you will not even miss the salt. Try adding fresh cilantro to your salad, or fresh mint to your sparkling lemon water.