How to Have a Healthy BBQ, Even When You’re Not the Host
Memorial Day is just around the corner which means it’s almost officially BBQ season. BBQ season is great, but it does mean you'll be surrounded by tempting foods like burgers, hot dogs and all the s'mores. It's a great time of year, but all the BBQs can make your healthy living goals a bit more challenging, especially if you aren't in charge of the BBQ. Despite these obstacles, you can still have a healthy BBQ experience!
My first tip is to make healthy food choices. Small healthy choices will help you stay on track and still enjoy the food that is available. Opt out of a bun for your burger and stack it between two pieces of lettuce. Skip the soda or beer and grab a water. When it comes to sides, stick to fruits and veggies instead of processed foods. You can choose what goes into your body even when the options don’t seem that healthy.
However, I know that there are times when you just want to treat yourself, so when those times come, enjoy your favorite food or drink and use these tips to help you stay on track.
Focus on the people, not the food
When you're preparing for a BBQ take a minute to get in the right mindset. Don't focus on all the good food that is going to be there – that just might stress you out! Instead, focus your excitement and energy on the people you're going to see.
This simple tip will help you when you're tempted to overeat or make a poor food decision because you can always take a moment to remember that you aren't there for the food. You're there to connect with your friends and your family.
Take a few minutes to talk with everyone at the BBQ. Take a genuine interest in what they have to say and what is going on in their lives. If there are kids there, spend some time with them too! Kids can always use a little extra attention and love.
Simply changing your mindset can be a huge game changer when it comes to living a healthier lifestyle.
Be aware of your surroundings
Knowing your weaknesses can be a big help when it comes to enjoying a healthy BBQ. Most people won't be focused on eating healthy, so they're going to tempt you with treats. It's fine to enjoy life and have a brownie every now and then, but you don't need to put yourself in a position to be tempted to eat the whole pan.
The easiest trick is to get away from the food! Don't linger by the refreshment table if you want to make healthy choices. Simply being next to the cakes, cookies, and ice cream will make you want it so much more. Get as far away from the food as you can, so that you can focus on conversations instead.
The same thing goes for being in the kitchen. The kitchen is typically where all the extra food is stored until it is served, which means it's a minefield of temptations. You don't have to refill the chip bowl, if stepping foot in the kitchen means you're going to want to snack on every item in there.
Also keep in mind if you're preparing food, you don't need to stand around in the kitchen while it's baking. Make your food and get out of the kitchen! Simply being in the kitchen will make you crave food and chances are, you aren't going to reach for veggies!
Move around so you aren't tempted
Movement. It's the lifeblood of a healthy lifestyle, so you shouldn't be surprised that I'm suggesting you move around if you want to have healthy BBQ!
BBQs are a great way to encourage people to be outside and have some fun. As adults, we tend to just sit around and talk, but we should try to include more movement in our activities. Here are a few ideas for games you can play that will keep you moving around.
Croquet
Corn hole or bean bag toss
Spike Ball
Ladder Golf
Water balloon or water gun fight
If these aren't for you, think of what games you enjoyed as a kid and bring one of them along. Getting involved in the games will keep you moving and burning calories! Which means you can sneak just one brownie. Can you tell brownies are my favorite?
Most of all, don't feel bad if you do indulge a little bit. It’s absolutely OK to enjoy life and celebrations. If you need support this summer, book a free discovery call with me and I can help you find stay focused on your goals.
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