The sun is out, limbs are tanned, holidays are on the horizon, which means only one thing – it is barbeque season.
These are the carefree afternoons we dream about in the depths of winter and are a time to relax with family and friends, catch up over a glass of wine or two and indulge in some really tasty food.
However, you can have too much of a good thing and before you know it you are fast undoing your healthy eating and gym sessions but fret not. By simply thinking about the choices you make and knowing when enough is enough, you can have fun and eat like a king.
We have a few suggestions to make this summer’s BBQs the best ever for mind, body and skin:
Hostess with the Mostest
If you are hosting the barbeque, make some simple switches that will make you look cooler than a cucumber.
Whilst there is nothing wrong with burgers and sausages in moderation (especially when organic and / or home made) think about alternatives:
- Lean turkey, veggie or salmon burgers taste great and are packed full of protein.
- Load skewers with lean, organic chicken or lamb along with antioxidant kicking peppers and mushrooms.
- Veggie kebabs are delicious options as is grilled fish, which have some great fats and protein.
- Prawns and sardines are real BBQ winners packed with loads of goodness.
- Bold, vibrant salads and vegetable sticks are tasty and refreshing and a great alternative to bowls of crisps and shop bought dips full of sugar.
- It is super easy to make guacamole, hummus and coleslaw and with the vibrant colours and choice of food on offer your guests will be more in awe of your amazing culinary skills than disappointed about the lack of Pringles.
Take a Gift
If you’re attending a BBQ take something along you know is healthy and you will want to eat. Whether it’s a Greek salad with olives, spinach and feta or home made hummus and carrot sticks, it will stop you diving into the peanuts, piling on the pounds and getting dehydrated.
Go Heavy on Veg
Rather than considering salad as an after thought, load up the good stuff before you put anything else on your plate. As well as getting some of your five a day and a great dose of vitamins, if you fill up on veg and salad you’re less likely to overindulge in the more unhealthy food on offer.
Enjoy Your Food
Try not to pick and snack all day and instead choose a balanced plate of food, sit down with friends and really enjoy what you are eating. Just because the food is there you don’t have to go back for second and third portions.
If your only option is a burger, don’t panic. There’s no need to put it in a buttered bun with extra cheese, instead add it to salad, go easy on the ketchup and enjoy the protein hit.
Think Before you Drink
BBQs are a haven for alcohol and whilst one or two are fine, make sure you keep hydrated and drink plenty of water. As well preventing you from becoming dehydrated, which can be mistaken for hunger pangs, it will also help you from over eating and binging.
A jug of water with lemon, cucumber and ice is refreshing and more appetising than a glass of tepid tap water. Peppermint tea is a great way to aid digestion and prevent bloating and by adding ice you can enjoy it on the hottest days of the summer.
Move Around
If the BBQ is on, it is likely to be a warm, sunny day so don’t just sit around eating – get moving. Grab a ball and play rounders, get jumping on the trampoline or even go for a walk by the river; keep the blood pumping and metabolism fired up and your body will thank you later.
Finally, remember it’s all about balance and moderation so have a great time and enjoy the odd treat but don’t beat yourself up if you go off the rails just a little bit.