Kara’s Top 6 Summer BBQ Survival Tips!!!

As most of you know, I grew up on the middle coastal region of Texas. If I’ve been to one BBQ at the beach or on the river, I have been to hundreds! During my early 20’s I finally won the battle against obesity and in that time I learned how to attend those Texas BBQ’s without veering off track. Continue reading to check out my top 6 tips.

1. EAT BEFORE YOU GO

Don’t show up to that BBQ that has an extensive supply of snacks and sinful goodies with an empty stomach. Enjoy a healthy snack of veggies and lean protein (like this Pepper Slaw) before you attend. Putting a little fuel in the tank before you attend will help to keep you satisfied and away from the chips and dips. Avoid those creamy sauces and cheesy fixings.

2. TAKE YOUR OWN

Contribute to the party! Take a lightened appetizer or main dish. Stuff some easy and healthy snacks in your car or travel bag. My family frequently BBQs at the river during the spring and summer months and one of myOLD favorite snacks was chips. Now I have replaced that snack with fresh chopped veggies or veggie chips (actually dehydrated veggies with no wild and crazy ingredients) and hummus.  Another one of my favorite snacks to have on hand in the color is a big colorful fruit salad. Use fresh fruit and refrain from drenching with sugary toppings. Need more ideas? There are some excellent recipes in The Get In Shape Girl’s cookbook Comfort Foods and Tailgate Treats.

3. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER

You’ve heard it a thousand times. Ever wonder why? IT HELPS! Drink up (and I don’t mean the beers). Staying hydrated will help to keep you from carelessly snacking. If you are drinking beer or alcohol of some kind try following my rule of thumb: only one alcoholic (12 ounces or less) beverage per 16 ounces of water. Earn that adult beverage!

4. CHOOSE YOUR TREAT WISELY

If this is a special occasion, maybe your birthday or a holiday, indulge just a little. If it’s a weekly event, maybe only have that special treat every 2 or 3 occasions. If your party is anything like the BBQ my family hosts, there are usually several decadent desserts to choose from. Select one, and enjoy it!

5. GO PLAY!

After you eat, get moving. Play volleyball. If you’re at the beach, on the river or near water – go for a swim. Engage in water sports. Or just go for a walk around the party location – get up and get moving. Burn off what you can.

6. WEAR A BIKINI

That’s right, if of course it’s appropriate, slip on that itty bitty bikini you’ve worked so hard to get in to. If showing skin is just not the way to go, wear a fitted dress or blouse of some kind. If you wear something that has no room for growth (aka BLOAT), then you will more likely hold yourself accountable. It’s the best way to avoid unnecessary drinks, snacks and treats.

Now you have the tools to survive any BBQ you may attend. Maybe you already have some really great tips to staying on track for the summertime cookouts. What advice would you give to someone attending this kind of affair?

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