They say your summer body is built in winter, but this nutritionist says you can get beach-ready in just one week.
Gabriella Peacock shares eight tips to transform your body in seven days, which will come as a welcome relief to anyone who's been putting off healthy eating and exercise during the cold weather.
“Achieving 'beach body' in just a week may not be realistic or healthy, but with a few simple lifestyle changes anyone can feel more confident and energised in a short space of time,” Peacock told The Sun in an interview.
The celebrity nutritionist, who has worked with both Princess Beatrice and Prince Harry, says her first tip is to hydrate strategically.
According to Peacock, herbal tea is best consumed early in the morning as it helps boost your metabolism.
Plus, the lemon and cucumber water will reduce bloating, which will come in handy when you take off your shirt to soak up the sun on the beach.
The experts' second tip is to avoid consuming too much sodium, as excess water retention makes the body appear bloated.
Peacock says using herbs and spices instead of salt is an easy way to cut back on your sodium intake, as well as avoid drinking too much water.
Third, nutritionists recommend increasing your protein intake to maintain muscle mass.
Peacock told Fabulous that sliced veggies with ham, Greek yogurt, boiled eggs and hummus are an easy alternative to processed foods like chips and cereal bars.
Fourth, experts advise dieters to eat a variety of complex carbohydrates, such as quinoa, sweet potato, and brown rice.
These carbs will give you energy and keep you fuller for longer, so you won't need to reach for those sweet or salty snacks before hitting the beach in summer.
Meanwhile, Peacock's fifth tip is all about fiber.
Fibrous foods like fruits and vegetables aid digestion and also help reduce bloating.
Number six: Snack strategically.
The mum-of-three says everyone should stock their cupboards with nuts, seeds and other foods to snack on when they feel hungry – just don't eat the whole bag.
The nutritionist told Fabulous magazine that rule number seven is to strictly control portion sizes.
Finally, while it might seem like strange advice, Peacock says a good night's sleep can help give you an amazing beach body.
Experts say you should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep a night, as lack of sleep can disrupt hormone levels, increase cravings for unhealthy foods and negatively impact your appearance on hot summer days.
