If one of your big summer goals is to get toned, eat healthy and feel great in a swimsuit, there are some specific health and fitness choices you can make.

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Try to avoid sugary drinks. Not only do they increase a person’s risk of chronic heart disease, but cutting out soda, energy drinks and other beverages high in sugar from your diet is known to help speed up weight loss.

And when it comes to meals, stay away from heavy carbs such as pasta and bread. Fruits and vegetables are the best way to go.

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If you need some energy or feel bloated or hydrated, consider juicing or drinking teas.

When it comes to fitness, incorporate both cardio (daily) and toning workouts (multiple times a week).

Lastly, as you bask in the sun, be sure to protect your skin against harmful UV rays and wear sunscreen.

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KhaDarel Hodge (center) and the Atlanta Falcons celebrated two wins over the Buccaneers last season — one on Oct. 4 when Hodge scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime in Atlanta (pictured) and the second one Oct. 27 in Tampa, Florida. The Falcons and Bucs open the 2025 NFL season on Sept. 7 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (John Bazemore/AP 2024)

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Cuthbert is the county seat of Randolph County, one of 94 Georgia counties that registered more deaths than births in 2024. The county's hospital closed in 2020, leaving longtime state Rep. Gerald Greene to drivce himself 46 miles to Albany while suffering from a kidney stone recently. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC