Navigating the Backyard BBQ

By:
Tanya Edwards Mancini

With spring in the air and summer just around the corner, we all get excited for our favorite warm-weather activities ‑- including firing up the grill for a BBQ. However, for dieters, a barbecue can be a minefield of fatty foods and sweets that is tough to navigate. But, with just a little foresight and planning, you can enjoy your favorite foods with your friends and family. Here's how.

Watch the grazing: While the grill is warming up, many hosts put out snacks for their guests to nosh on. This can be very dangerous for the easily tempted dieter, so be prepared. Stay as far away from the appetizers as possible. Offer to help your host set up, go outside and take a breather, or just get up and move yourself to another part of the party. If you must graze ‑- dieters get hungry! ‑- stick to vegetables dipped in salsa, hummus or low-fat dressing. Not sure if the host will offer veggies? Bring your own bowl or tray, and be sure to bring enough to share. You're probably not the only one trying to get swimsuit ready, and finding a buddy always helps.

Plan ahead: Call the host in advance and ask if you can bring anything. This gives you the opportunity to prepare a healthy dish or bring some lean meats or veggie burgers. If you're hosting the event, plan to grill lean meats only, and offer sauces and toppings to those not watching their diets. Cut the calories on standards like potato and macaroni salads by using fat-free mayonnaise, mustard or oil and vinegar.

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: