6 Tips for Summer BBQ Survival

Small tricks can save you hundreds, if not thousands of wasted calories that you will never notice or miss. No need to sacrifice a good time, just make a few upgrades to your healthy lifestyle.

1. Get your hydration on!!!

Dehydration saps our energy and leads to false hunger signals. Between the sun and the drinks, make sure you are drinking LOTS of water!!! Fresh fruits are another great way to hydrate in the summer. They also help to satiate your sweet tooth! Coconut water and watermelon are my favorite ways to hydrate in the hot summer months!

2. Go crazy on the veggies!!!

Load up on salad and grilled veggies before you dive into the other stuff. This will give you a low calorie dose of antioxidants and help fill you. Getting your fix of vegetables will make you less likely to overeat on the higher calorie foods.

3. Use a small plate.

It has been clearly proven that people who eat off smaller plates eat less without even noticing. They report the same fullness and satisfaction as those who have eaten up to 50% more. Try using one of the dessert plates instead.

4. Skip the crackers, breads and chips.

Refined carbohydrates are the worst things you can eat because they offer little satisfaction and loads of calories. Can’t do without the bun on your burger? That’s fine; just pass on the chips and other stuff that we tend to mindlessly munch on.

5. Have a small portion of dessert.

The difference in calories between a large and small piece of cake can literally be hundreds! Sugar and refined foods are some of the worst things we can eat. I am not saying skip it all together, but keep it in small!

6. Watch your alcohol.

There is a place for some alcohol within a healthy lifestyle, but be sure to make smart choices here. This can make all the difference for you if you are trying to lose weight. One sugary margarita can have 600-800 calories in it! Three margaritas may be more calories than you need in a whole day!!! Is that really worth it??? Stick with wine or beer and remember to pace yourself.