Summer Eating
For many, summer is the most social of seasons! BBQ's, bonfires and impromptu patio dates (not to mention weddings!) can lead to very busy days and often times, lots of opportunities for our diets to slide off track! That's not to say we shouldn't have our indulgences but as social calendars fill these 'indulgences' can quickly change to the 'norm.' Here are a few easy to tips to help keep our diets in check!
Skip the Dip
Appetizers are a staple at summer get togethers- veggies and dip, hummus and pitas and the very less healthy cream cheese based dips like Pinterest favourite Buffalo Chicken Dip. Though some of these may seem like healthy options, most people don't stick to the recommended serving size of dip which is only about 1 tablespoon. Also, unless it's homemade, it is likely laden with salt and preservatives. Be sure to plate your appetizers to help keep track of how much you are actually having, keep the dip modest and go crazy on the veggies!
Mind Your Sides
Side dishes are a given at any event. However, without realizing it, these dishes can often become a second dinner. Pasta salad is a quick dish to throw together but tossing a half cup onto your plate is actually a full meal sized serving. The same applies to potato salad and bean salad. All provide tonnes of starchy carbs. Your best bet is to load up on veggie based salads- think green/lettuce and veggie salads or even a chopped Greek salad. Toss in some nuts, seeds or avocado slices for flavour and a dose of healthy fats. Just watch out for processed/preservative laden or calorie heavy dressings!
The Main Event
Burgers, steaks, ribs- these are all common foods tossed on the bbq. Though, red meat has it's benefits- such as a great source of iron and zinc- it should still be consumed in moderation. Switch it up by grilling some chicken, fish or even portobello mushrooms. And remember to always avoid heavily processed meats (think hot dogs) to avoid the preservatives and fillers!
Watch the Alcohol
Alcohol in general provides completely empty calories and many summer drinks
(Sangria anyone?) also provide a whopping serving of sugar. If you do indulge in alcohol be mindful of how much you consume and try to choose a drink that contains less sugar. Try mixing soda water and fresh fruit such as berries for a low calorie, low sugar treat, alcohol optional!
Disclaimer: The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. This information shouldn’t take the place of seeing a Naturopathic Doctor or your primary care provider for individualized health recommendations.
Skip the Dip
Appetizers are a staple at summer get togethers- veggies and dip, hummus and pitas and the very less healthy cream cheese based dips like Pinterest favourite Buffalo Chicken Dip. Though some of these may seem like healthy options, most people don't stick to the recommended serving size of dip which is only about 1 tablespoon. Also, unless it's homemade, it is likely laden with salt and preservatives. Be sure to plate your appetizers to help keep track of how much you are actually having, keep the dip modest and go crazy on the veggies!
Mind Your Sides
Side dishes are a given at any event. However, without realizing it, these dishes can often become a second dinner. Pasta salad is a quick dish to throw together but tossing a half cup onto your plate is actually a full meal sized serving. The same applies to potato salad and bean salad. All provide tonnes of starchy carbs. Your best bet is to load up on veggie based salads- think green/lettuce and veggie salads or even a chopped Greek salad. Toss in some nuts, seeds or avocado slices for flavour and a dose of healthy fats. Just watch out for processed/preservative laden or calorie heavy dressings!
The Main Event
Burgers, steaks, ribs- these are all common foods tossed on the bbq. Though, red meat has it's benefits- such as a great source of iron and zinc- it should still be consumed in moderation. Switch it up by grilling some chicken, fish or even portobello mushrooms. And remember to always avoid heavily processed meats (think hot dogs) to avoid the preservatives and fillers!
Watch the Alcohol
Alcohol in general provides completely empty calories and many summer drinks (Sangria anyone?) also provide a whopping serving of sugar. If you do indulge in alcohol be mindful of how much you consume and try to choose a drink that contains less sugar. Try mixing soda water and fresh fruit such as berries for a low calorie, low sugar treat, alcohol optional!
Disclaimer: The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. This information shouldn’t take the place of seeing a Naturopathic Doctor or your primary care provider for individualized health recommendations.
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