Hosting a summer barbecue? Here’s what to ditch and what to dish out.

PROTEIN

Ditch: Beef/pork hot dogs

Dish Up: Grilled chicken

What You’ll Save: A 1.8 oz beef hot dog has 165 calories and nearly 15g fat (and that’s without the bun and condiments). A 4 oz serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast has only 140 calories and negligible fat.

SIDES

Ditch: Mayonnaise-soaked salads (pasta, potato, etc.)

Dish Up: Grilled veggie kabobs

What You’ll Save: One cup of potato salad will set you back 350 calories and 20g fat. On the other hand, a grilled veggie kabob, comes in at just over 100 calories and 4g fat.

DIPS

Ditch: Onion

Dish Up: Guacamole

What You’ll Save: While there isn’t a big difference in calories or overall fat, the majority of the fat in guacamole is monounsaturated, which may help lower diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk. What’s more, guacamole is higher in fiber than onion dip and has almost no cholesterol, making it a far healthier option. The best dippers for your guac? Fresh crudités or our Fiesta Lime Puffs. At just 100 calories and 12 grams of protein, they have a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with guacamole.

SIPS

Ditch: Cocktails

Dish Up: Unsweetened iced green tea

What You’ll Save: An 8 oz margarita packs 455 calories and a daiquiri-flavored wine cooler can have over 40g sugar (carbs ). Unsweetened green tea is a zero-calorie drink with the added bonus of antioxidants.

DESSERT

Ditch: S’mores

Dish Up: S'mores Pudding

What You’ll Save: You’ll bank about 250 calories and 10g fat while still indulging in a classic taste of summer!

 

Active Medi-Weightloss® patients should consult the experts at their location on whether the foods and recipes mentioned are appropriate for their phase of the program.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be an exhaustive examination of the subject matter nor a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your primary care physician or healthcare provider before beginning any diet or exercise program.