Enjoying yourself at a barbecue—whether you’re hosting or attending—doesn’t have to mean taking a step back in your weight loss journey! In fact, grilling is one of the healthiest ways you can prepare your food: think bold flavours and tons of grilled veggies. Read on for your some of our favourite health tips on how to stick to your program while making the most out of one of summer’s greatest pleasures.
- Grilled vegetables, chicken, pork loin, fish and seafood make the perfect protein base for healthy recipes during barbecue season.
- To keep with healthy eating, always fill your plate with vegetables first.
- If burgers and hot dogs are the only available options, stick to just ONE serving, and the cheese is definitely a food to avoid if you’re indulging. If they’re available, stick to “thin” buns—or pass over the bun altogether and chow down with a lettuce wrap if you’re aiming for a low carb diet.
- Corn on the cob’s a healthier choice, but a good diet tip is to skip slathering it with butter and go for a squeeze of lemon or lime juice instead, with some freshly-cracked pepper.
- Bring a salad to the party! Salads are quick healthy meals. Be a great guest and show your host that a potato salad made with Greek yogurt instead of mayo can be just as tasty!
- Don’t go overboard with the alcohol; stick to light beer, spritzers, and cocktails made with sugar-free beverages. Health tip: don’t forget to drink lots of water to stay hydrated!
- When it comes to condiments and healthy eating, steer away from mayo and opt for a dollop of Greek yogurt along with veg-based fixings like salsa, avocado, and loads of seasonal vegetables.
- If your craving for Dad’s finger-lickin’ ribs is a common roadblock on your highway to eating healthy, try using his secret marinade or sauce on chicken breasts or pork loin instead of a fatty rack of baby backs!
