Which summer foods can unexpectedly cause weight gain?

Summer seems like the ideal time to lose extra pounds: the heat reduces appetite, there are plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and more movement. However, some seasonal products can deceive and lead to unexpected weight gain.

Corn is a frequent guest at the summer table. It's filling and tasty, but contains a lot of starch. It becomes especially caloric when combined with butter or salt.

Cold teas, lemonades, and other "refreshing" drinks often contain more sugar than regular soda. Even if a drink looks "natural," it can be so sweet that it literally provokes overeating.

Fruits can also let you down. Watermelon, grapes, mango, bananas – these are all sources of natural sugar. In reasonable amounts, they are beneficial, but if eaten uncontrollably throughout the day, extra calories quickly accumulate.

Ice cream, even the simplest kind, rarely comes without sugar, cream, or other additives. And if it's premium ice cream with caramel, chocolate chips, or cookies - it's already a full-fledged dessert, not just a "refreshing sweet treat."

Smoothies and fruit cocktails look like a healthy alternative to desserts, but they are also tricky. The combination of honey, nuts, yogurt, bananas, and other components can easily turn a glass of drink into a full meal in terms of calories.

Summer salads with dressings can also be deceptive. Lettuce and cucumbers are almost zero calories, but add mayonnaise-based dressing, some cheese, croutons, or nuts - and the dish turns into a high-calorie one.

Shashlik (kebabs), grilled meat, and sauces become frequent dishes at picnics. Even if the meat itself is lean, the cooking method, marinade, and side dishes make it heavy for the body.

Even light-looking snacks like crackers, nuts, or dried fruits can contribute to weight gain if you forget about portion size. These products are calorie-dense, and it's easy to eat more than needed.

Summer can indeed be a time of health and lightness if you approach food mindfully. Even healthy products can harm your figure if consumed without moderation.