Suggest activities: Don't center the day around the grill. We know the food is one of the best parts, but so is having fun with friends and family. Too often, a backyard BBQ turns into the whole gang sitting around waiting for the food to cook. Don't sit on your duff! Plan low-impact games and activities that everyone can participate in. Set up a badminton net or a croquet set and divide the gang into teams ‑- the losers get clean-up duty. If you're with a more active group, try volleyball or a game of hoops. Or, if you're not competitive, suggest a pre- or post-meal walk around the neighborhood. The more you're moving, the less you'll be grazing.

A few smarter choices, and items to avoid:

Better BBQ: