A Better Backyard BBQ

Happy Memorial Day and thank you to all those who have served and are serving our country! This weekend is the kickoff of summer and that means BBQs! Even if we aren't gathering or going out like usual, cooking out is definitely on our list of to-dos! Grilling and all the yummy sides that go along with it can be chalk full of fresh and healthy food or on the flip side, can leave us full of unhealthy fats, processed foods and food-hungover the next day. I prefer to feel my best and if you do as well, follow these simple BBQ tips for the healthiest you!

1.Choose the right meat. If you have a choice, choose grilled chicken, lean turkey burger or very lean hamburger (93% lean). You will get a great protein pump without the all the calories and fat (especially saturated fat) of the fatty burgers and brats.

2.Don’t fill up on bread. Stay away from rolls and buns. Generally, these are made with refined, white flour anyway, so they can pack in the calories without providing an ounce of nutrition…just say no.

3.Fill up on grilled or fresh veggies. They are low calorie, fiber-filled and nutrient packed. They are what I bring to most BBQs so that I know there will be some there...hehe.

4.Satisfy your sweet tooth (with fruit salad). Again, it’s nutrient packed and much lower in calories than the typical baked goods.

5.Only eat what you really really want to eat. If you LOVE baked beans, have a little bit…not bucketfull…but get a nice little taste (like ¼ cup) and be satisfied. If it’s brats that you drool over, have a half of one for your “meat” and call it a day.

6. Bring something to the party that you can nosh on without guilt: think veggie tray or fresh fruit!

7. Watch what you are sipping…alcohol typically = more food consumption. So choose light beers, wine or hard liquor with calorie free mixers. And do the every-other-drink rule: water, alcohol, water, alcohol, etc

8. Schedule a sweat session the morning after. That's right, make an workout appointment with your personal trainer (need one?) or friends who won't let you slack off!

Enjoy!!