Healthy Memorial Day Eating

It is Memorial Day weekend. Are you planning on a cookout or to have some time with friends, centered around food?

We have somewhat veered away from the idea of Memorial Day. It has gone from remembering soldiers and other loved ones who have passed, to firing up the grill in the backyard.

If you are planning on getting out and being a part of a backyard grilling feast, then let me suggest some ways to cut back on the calories and other unhealthy aspects of eating, without taking away from the taste.

Meat:

Use turkey dogs instead of normal hot dogs.
Use 96% lean meat instead of 73% or 85%

Bread/Buns:

Look for buns that are low on calories - they taste just as good

Beverages:

Instead of traditional lemonade or Kool-aid, use the sugar-free or Crystal Light variations
Drink unsweetened tea
Use small cups for sugary drinks - have to refill more
Drink water

Desserts:

If you have no control over who makes the desserts, try this - use small plates and not the one you had with your entree.
Engage in conversation and/or sit away from the desserts to elongate time to eat more
Sit with back to the desserts so you do not see them.

Side Items:

Vary the ingredients depending on the product with either sugar-free or low-fat content
If you find low-fat cheese is low on flavor, try using "sharp" cheddar for a replacement of "mild" cheddar, when available.
When using something uncooked that requires milk, use the skim version.

Don't forget to enjoy the fresh fruit and vegetable items!!!

The weekend looks to be very pleasant and it is a great time to be outside! Enjoy some activities...walking, talking, tossing a ball, riding, planting.