BBQ Season is Here: 7 ways to stay on track.

 

It’s the beginning of the summer and that means that it’s backyard BBQ season! Those fun-filled get-togethers with tons of food and friends are a fantastic way to celebrate the great weather and spend time with family and friends, but they also have potential to derail our wellness goals.

 So…what’s a BBQ goer to do? Just follow these simple tricks to keep your heart and fitness level healthy throughout the summer.

 

1. Choose the right meat. If you have a choice, choose grilled chicken, turkey burger, salmon, very lean hamburger (93% lean) or veggie burger (anyone else obsessed with Impossible burgers?). 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. DO fill up on grilled or fresh veggies. They are low calorie, fiber-filled and nutrient packed.

 

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 your favorites. If you LOVE baked beans, have a little bit…not a gallon…but a regular portion size (like ¼ cup) and be satisfied. If it’s brats that you drool over, have half of one with another half portion of grilled chicken or salmon for your “meat” and call it a day.

 

6. If you’re staying away from carbs all together, a BBQ should be easy for you...meat and veggies…make it your mantra!

 

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

 

Cheers to the weekend!