With summer here and July 4th this weekend, there will of course be BBQ Parties. But with so many Barbecues to go to, how can you stay in shape? There are usually lots of carbohydrates and meats on offer, which can be hard to avoid. Read below to be in the know of how to prepare and enjoy a Healthy BBQ!
Choose lean protein: Lean meats, such as, chicken, fish, turkey, bison, and sirloin, provides less calories, saturated fat and cholesterol than high fat meats, such as dark meats, hot dogs, and full fat hamburger meat. Vegetable & meat skewers are excellent!
–Ground extra lean organic turkey & Veggie burgers are a great substitute for hamburger meat!
– Choose whole grain buns. Whole grain products have more fiber than white bread. Try Arnold Sandwich Thins which have 5 grams of fiber and only 100 calories!
*The Surf & Turf in Belleair Bluffs has great all-natural & lean selections as well as a variety of hard to find meats and done for you options that are ready to go right on the grill!
Skip the potato and pasta salad: Traditionally made potato and pasta salad are loaded with calories and fat. They provide excess calories in the form of carbohydrate without any fiber, which may cause drops in blood sugar, making you feel lethargic and irritable an hour after you eat them.
Cole Slaw, 1 cup: 400 calories, 20 grams of fat
Potato Salad, 1 cup: 430 calories, 24g fat
Instead, make a big salad mixed with all your favorite veggies. Spinach and rocket lettuce are in season. Or throw some sliced vegetables on the grill – asparagus is also in season and grilles very nicely.
Go for healthy organic snack foods: If you have been on our Grocery Store tour, you know exactly what I’m talking about! Eating an Organic snack vs. a regular product does not have the same negative effect on your health or body. This is because anything Organic does not contain trans fats, preservatives, and extra calories from all the crap. You will be surprised by how great these options taste! Publix or the local Health Food Store have great selections.
Reconsider the hot dog: Especially avoid processed meats with nitrates like hot dogs, and bratwurst, which are some of the worst offenders when it comes to HCAs. Look for nitrate-free hot dogs or ones made from grass-fed beef or veggie dogs if you do choose to indulge.
Choose your alcohol wisely: When it comes to alcohol, some choices are better than others. So, if you want to have a drink in the shade and you are a beer -lover, try low-carb beer. Otherwise, chilled white wine is always yummy or vodka and crystal light tastes great, especially when it is blended with some ice!! Be careful of mixed drinks – a margarita or pina colada have about 300 calories! You have to walk for 3 miles to burn that off.
*Crystal Light does have a new product line without artificial sweeteners!
Don’t forget to hydrate: Alcohol plus sun can equal headache and dehydration. Therefore, it is important to drink adequate water when the sun is hot, especially if you are drinking alcohol. Drinking 6-8, 8oz glasses of water every day is great for your skin, helps regulate bowel function and will prevent dehydrations, so don’t forget to DRINK UP!
When you’re done eating get out and play! It will help you from mindless munching!
Have a Wonderful & Safe 4th of July!
To Your Success,
Julia
