Hello Summer!

I am so excited! The pool is almost ready, my 5 year old is done with Pre-K for the year and

Memorial Day Weekend in right around the corner!  Who doesn't LOVE this unofficial summer season kick off?

However, with this weekend comes the burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, cole slaw and all things barbecue and picnic related. Which can also pack on the pounds. While one "bad" meal won't make you gain weight it's sure hard to avoid the summer favorites throughout the ENTIRE summer. And I seriously love potato salad. And I didn't even begin to mention the ice cream...

So here are my tips and tricks for keeping clean eating in check and not falling into the mayo laden, loaded burger summer pitfalls.

Enjoy In Season Fruits and Veggies

The BEST thing about summer (besides lazy days by the pool) is all of the fresh summer produce. One of my favorite ways to eat more vegetables is fill up on a delicious vegetable kabob prepared on the grill. You could even add some shrimp or chicken for some protein.

Fresh fruit such as pineapple can add a little flair to your kabob. My favorite is mushrooms, green peppers and pineapples. Have you thought about throwing some watermelon on your grill? (be sure to keep an eye on your watermelon as its high water content can cause it to burn) How about peaches? Strawberries? One way to really add some unique flair to your next barbecue is offer fresh fruit kabobs as a dessert. Set out a bowl of fruit and have guests skewer their own combinations. My kids particularly love this as they can add whatever fruits they like.



Summer Salads

Since we're talking summer season foods lets not forget salads! But they don't have to be those ho hum garden kids! Cucumbers with Roma tomatoes marinated in balsamic vinegar is one of my favorites as is a wonderful cucumber salad with onions and a light marinade. Tabbouleh is a wheat salad that is delicious when prepared chilled and with olive oil, diced tomatoes, lemon juice and mint.






Burgers Aren't Just Beef!

There are TONS of options for your burger choices if you're avoiding beef. Pre-made turkey burgers are a great alternative as are salmon burgers or even grilled chicken! All of these options can be put on a multi-grain bun, topped with lettuce, tomatoes (or even a slice of cheese). And again fruit can really spice up a burger! Is beef the only option? Opt for one that is the correct portion size or simply cut one in half! I do try to avoid chips whenever possible but a small serving will be just fine to keep it to a minimum.

Just One Please...

Serving of starch that is! Keep starches to a minimum. Love corn on the cob or chips? Choose one and then wrap your burger in lettuce. Holding out for those cupcakes or strawberry shortcake? Skip the starches all together, fill up on protein and vegetables and save that starch for dessert.

Water, Water Everywhere

Try to avoid sweet sugary drinks. Not only will these make you even more thirsty, they easily pack on the pounds. My biggest tip, always have a cup of water in your hand. This will not only keep your hands busy and occupied and out of the snack foods, it will help keep you fuller so you wont be tempted to overeat when it comes to meal time.

Stay Active!

The point of living a healthier lifestyle is not about eliminating all of the things you LOVE! Its about moderation and balance. And if I know I'm going to be indulging, I make it a point to get my workout done first thing in the morning (I've even been known to throw in an extra 10 minute ab workout or even an extra walk around the block). Even participating in a little extra backyard fun can help burn those extra calories. Tag with the kids, hide and go seek or even a quick game of Frisbee can burn calories. Ask friends if they'd like to take a quick walk around the block after the barbecue. Its a great way to continue to socialize with friends while getting in some extra steps.

Interested in More?

Do you struggle to keep your eating on task throughout certain times of the year? Looking for a little extra help or motivation? Want some great meal plans, recipes and even MORE tips and tricks? How about recipes for some of those great salads you just read about? Contact me here and send me a quick message about my June 8th challenge group where I provide all of these things plus MORE. I will even work with you to help you find a workout that you'll love and will fit your lifestyle. Remember, its not about elimination, its all about moderation!