Lauren S. Johnson writes health articles about fitness and nutrition.
Some of her favorite passions include studying the medicinal benefits of herbal remedies for antidepressants,
diet pills, and hoodia gordonii.
Summer time is usually a time for barbecues and picnics. Along with barbeques and picnics come potato chips, fatty meats, sodas, alcoholic beverages, rich desserts, and a plethora of other calorie laden foods. While this may not present an issue to the kids, many adults, especially those trying to keep a slim waist often fall behind with their weight goals during these three hot months. So what are some of the food options for weight concerned adults who don’t want to miss that family barbecue?
The best barbecue starter for people any size and age is watermelon. Chilled watermelon wedges are great for satisfying thirst on a hot summer day. Furthermore, this particular fruit is very filling and it provides the kids with a sweet treat. During meal time, when most people consume calorie laden meats, a great food alternative for those who watch their weight are grilled veggies. Some favorites include: onions, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and eggplant. All you have to do is cut up the vegetables and add your favorite seasoning to it. And if you really want to get creative, after the vegetables have been grilled you can make your own grilled veggie pita. Simply add your favorite low fat dressing and spices.
As for dessert and delicious drinks, there are many low calorie alternatives available. During the summer we often indulge in sugar loaded smoothies (which can have up to 700 calories), sweet coffee drinks, sodas, and alcoholic drinks. All of these beverages add a surprising amount of calories into our daily diet. So why not instead of a smoothie, create your own root beer float. Simply place half a cup of frozen vanilla yogurt in 12 ounces of diet root beer, creating a 100 calorie treat. Instead of a sweet alcoholic beverage try making your own white wine spritzer. Simply mix 5 ounces of white wine with 3 ounces of lemon/lime seltzer water, creating a 120 calorie drink. And if you simply can’t live without your local coffee shop refreshments, try opting for fat free or skim version of your favorite drink. These are just a few tips for maintaining your summer diet.
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