It’s summertime and grilling season has officially begun! To celebrate, many people like to host a barbecue, or head to a family or friend’s house for one. But many barbecue parties tend to have high-calorie menu items which can lead to diet disaster. Here are some suggestions on how to navigate those summer barbecues without adding on the pounds.
- If you know you are heading to a party, cut back on calories the couple meals before you go. i.e., eat a salad instead of a sandwich and 100 cal-pack for lunch.
- Add some extra time in your workout if you know ahead of time you are heading to a party. If you overdid it at the party, tack on extra time in your workout the next day.
- Don’t go to your party hungry! Eat a small snack an hour or two before you head out so you don’t start picking at all the appetizers at the party.
- Scope out the buffet ahead of time to see what’s on the menu. Then pick and choose.
- Limit items with mayo (potato salad, coleslaw, pasta salad)
- Always choose salad, vegetables or fruit as one on your sides.
- Choose leaner meats such as grilled chicken. If you are serving hamburgers, make the patties out of 90 to 95% lean sirloin instead of the boxed burgers from the freezer section.
- Limit the chips and desserts. If you choose one just watch your portions.
- Don’t forget that high calories beverages (alcohol, soda, lemonade, etc.) can add in a lot of extra calories.
- The main goal is to not overeat, watch your portions and don’t forget… Have a great time!
For nutrition or exercise questions, contact
Devine Nutrition
Kelly Devine Rickert, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN, CPT
Shannon Center Nutritionist
www.kellydevinenutrition.com
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