One of the things I get asked about consistently by clients is how to make healthier choices in the summer when you’re at barbecues every weekend.
Being surrounded by burgers, dogs, and those fluffy potato rolls can make it challenging to stay on target with your goals.
Many of my clients feel they need to give in to whatever is being served. They feel out of control, so they overindulge in foods that aren’t as nutrient dense.
While this is okay on occasion, it can add up pretty quickly when you’re trying to make positive progress.
You DO have some control when visiting a barbecue, and even more when you host it!
☀️ I turn to healthy and filling carbs like potatoes as sides. Cooked in the air fryer, these contain little to no fat and provide great fuel for workouts the next day. With these, no one is missing the greasy, sodium filled chips.
☀️ I make sure to grill a vegetable or two. Summer squashes, zucchinis, roasted tomatoes, peppers, and onions are always a great and flavorful addition to your plate. A splash of olive oil, sea salt and ground pepper make these a fantastic addition to your plate.
☀️ As someone who doesn’t eat red meat, I go for black bean, falafel, or veggie burgers (watch for any other allergens you might have in these). Choose something with higher protein, which keeps you full longer. You can also choose a lean red meat, or go for turkey/chicken burgers you make at home.
☀️ Add an awesome cheese (I always choose pepper jack because I like it spicy) that adds additional protein.
☀️ Choose your bun (or none!). I go for the Arnold Sandwich Thins, which have way fewer carbs and higher fiber than traditional hamburger buns. Higher fiber = full for longer and less processed.
If you’re going to a barbecue at someone else’s house, don’t be afraid to BYOB – bring your own bread. It’s a simple way of cutting out 200 – 300 additional calories from your plate.
You can also offer to bring a side and choose something like vegetables or a green salad with all the fixin’s.
Remember that you DO have control over what you’re choose. Don’t throw the day away. Put in the extra effort to make the best choices in reaching your goals!
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