It’s July 4th weekend, and that means time for BBQ, picnics, and backyard parties.
Here are 5 quick tips to avoid overeating:
1. Choose what you want to have at your barbecue in advance. Rather than just doing a hot dog or hamburger because that’s the normal thing to do, think through what you really want. Chicken kabobs are a fun and nutritious choice, and grilled vegetables are DELICIOUS.
And if you do want that hot dog? Eat it consciously. Load your plate full of green vegetables, and use the room you have left for that hot dog you’ve been looking forward to. Dress it up exactly how you want it - don’t hold back - and then savor every single bite of it.
And the second your body tells you that it’s had enough, honor it!
2. Bring tasty vegetables to any picnic, party, or barbecue.
Contributing is a great way to be social, and veggies are something you’ll always want to have plenty of. They’re delicious grilled or raw - meaning you can have them with your grilled food, or raw to snack on throughout the day.
3. Focus on the reason you’re there.
At a social gathering with your friends or family, really focus on the people and the activities. Don’t allow food to become the focal point and the only reason you’re there.
If it starts to get a little slow, where everyone is focused on food and not so much on each other, use that opportunity to start a great conversation, ask some questions, tell a story, or start an activity. Spend time with the people you love, and move your body!
4. Eat often, and before you go.
Before you head out for that BBQ, eat something nutritious and satisfying. You definitely don’t want to walk into the party starving, and you don’t want to go too long after you’re there without eating.
Keep eating healthy snacks throughout the party - nuts and fruit, or raw veggies, and make sure you’re not ever starving. That definitely leads to over eating.
5. Stay hydrated!
One of the biggest ways to overeat is to be thirsty and mistake your thirst for hunger.
The number one rule, especially if you’re drinking alcohol, is to drink plenty of water!
Water keeps you hydrated and will help to prevent you from feeling that “starved” feeling.
Have a safe & happy July 4th!