Holidays are a time to celebrate and have fun with family and friends. They're meant to be enjoyed! Knowing a few small tricks can save you hundreds of calories at the next family BBQ. Check out these five tips to make your 4th of July a healthy one!
Use small plates: People who choose smaller plates eat less without even noticing! And the difference can be as substantial as 50% fewer calories consumed (and you keep the same level of fullness and satisfaction!) Try borrowing a plate from the kids table or the dessert tray.
Eat slowly and mindfully: People who eat more slowly consume fewer calories over the course of a meal. BBQs are a perfect opportunity to pace yourself as you mix and mingle with friends and family. The more you’re chatting, the less you’re eating.
Eat healthy first: Have you heard this one before? If you're eating slowly and off small plates, you may as well fill up on the healthy stuff first. Salads are a great place to start - from there try to choose something with healthy fats and protein, these will help you feel full sooner.
Limit refined carbohydrates: We know refined carbohydrates are pretty bad for us. They offer little nutritional value, loads of calories, and spike our insulin levels. BBQs are filled with wonderful food so do yourself a favor and save your calories for the really good stuff. You don’t have to eat your burger without a bun, but pass on the chips and other snacks that lure you when you’re not thinking.
Keep desserts small: The difference between a large slice of cake and a smaller slice of cake can be hundreds of calories. You don’t have to pass on dessert completely but keep your portion sizes in check for this course.
For healthy recipe and menu ideas check out this link http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/collections/healthy_4th_recipes
Have a happy, safe 4th of July!
