Are you trying to lose weight just in time for that beach trip you and your friends have been planning for months? Can’t wait to don that gorgeous two-piece bikini you’ve been trying on almost every day? We understand your determination to cut back on food, but starving yourself isn’t the healthiest way to lose a few inches. If you want to keep the pounds off, but still stay healthy, make sure you at least have some of these foods in your diet!

1. Fruits
You’re more likely to become dehydrated now than at any other time of the year. Beat the heat by drinking lots of water and consuming lots of fruits. According to Yahoo Voices, watermelons and grapes are particularly great for quenching your thirst.

2. Bean sprouts
According to LiveStrong, bean sprouts are good for keeping your energy levels up, and they also contain fewer calories. Juju Cleanse’s Kat Azanza shares that her husband would chop “toge” into tiny pieces to substitute for rice whenever he wants to lose weight.

3. Eggs
Before you leave for work, have a satisfying breakfast first. According to LiveStrong, eggs make for a good morning meal because they’re rich in protein. In fact, the same article shares that people who consumed eggs for breakfast were fuller for longer than those who only ate bagels.

4. Corn
Another great substitute for rice is corn. According to Discovery, corn is a low-fat treat that's immensely high in fiber and vitamins. Avoid slathering it with butter, or else all your efforts will be for naught.

5. Fish
Staying away from meat this summer? Go for fish instead! Fish are relatively low in calories, and they also contain omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the heart, says an article on Discovery. Just make sure you don’t fry your fish, as the batter you coat the fish with may add additional carbs you don’t need.

(Photo by Romain Bouchet via Flickr Creative Commons)