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Everyone loves to celebrate warm, sunny days with friends, family and an outdoor grill.
But cookouts often mean greasy cheeseburgers, mayonnaise-laden potato salads, sugary soda and other
foods that contribute to expanding waistlines. Obesity rates in America have more than doubled for
adults since 1980. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 33 percent of Americans are now
considered obese.
Don't despair! You can enjoy a lighter cookout without sacrificing fun or flavor. Nutritionist
Leanne Ely, author of the "Saving Dinner" cookbook, offers the following tips:
Upgrade the Protein
Trim fat by choosing leaner meat for hamburgers. Buy turkey or
vegetarian burgers for guests who do not eat red meat. For extra fiber, serve on whole wheat buns.
Choose Better Burger Toppings
Hit the produce section for crisp lettuce,
tomatoes and onions, and while you're there, pick up soy-based Veggie slices for the cheese lovers in
your family. This tasty cheese alternative melts like real cheese but without the saturated fat or cholesterol.
Instead of mayonnaise, serve condiments like salsa and spicy mustard, which add fat-free flavor.
Marinate
Make your own marinade by combining sunflower oil, wine, vinegar
or citrus juice and some fresh herbs and spices to make even the most mundane piece of meat or poultry
taste exotic and delicious without adding extra calories.
Skip Sugary Drinks
It's important to stay hydrated on warmer days, so skip sodas -
even diet sodas contain too much sodium. Instead, drink unsweetened iced tea with lemon, orange or lime slices,
or make a spritzer by mixing cranberry juice with soda water for a refreshing summertime treat.
Ely says, "The best way to maintain a healthy weight is by eating more lean protein, veggies and
whole grains, and avoiding foods high in saturated fat, like dairy. Take advantage of the abundance
of fresh produce available during the warmer months and fire up the grill!"
Click here for the Smart Food Tips Home Page
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