Summer is here in full swing and, if you are anything like me, by now you have probably begun to enjoy the warmer season! Barbecues and picnics with friends and family are a must this time of year - but did you know that these fun gatherings are packed with ample opportunities to throw your fitness-conscious inhibitions to the wind?
Now, while you are fully aware that hamburgers, hotdogs and potato chips aren't the pinnacle of health, do you know just how detrimental these items are to your waistline?
Read on for a detailed look at traditional summer foods and then fill your ice chest with my "Fit Fare" suggestions... trust me, by making a few small alterations to your summer menu you can shed excess pounds while enjoying delicious food in your favorite setting - summer!
Hamburger: While nothing smells quite like summer more than a grilling hamburger patty, we must acknowledge its not-so-pleasant score on the nutrition counter. A 3oz (normal size patty), 75% lean meat hamburger patty contains:
Calories: 236, Fat: 16g, Cholesterol: 76mg, Sodium: 66mg.
Fit Fare: Fire the grill up with marinated chicken breasts, lean turkey patties, or veggie burgers. These all taste great and are much healthier!
Hot Dog: Grilled hot dogs are another cherished summer tradition, however, there are healthier alternatives available that don't compromise on taste. A typical beef frank contains:
Calories: 147, Fat: 14g, Cholesterol: 25mg, Sodium: 461mg.
Fit Fare: Check your local grocer for low fat, low sodium, nitrite-free turkey dogs, or go out on a limb and try a soy hot dog - who knows? You may like it!
Potato Chips: They are crunchy, salty and satisfying, but have you ever checked out the nutrition label on a bag of regular potato chips? 1oz of the greasy munchies contain:
Calories: 155, Fat: 11g, Carbohydrate: 14g, Sodium: 148mg.
Fit Fare: I know you will love this suggestion - how about a vegetable tray? Fresh veggies pack just as much crunching fun as a bag of chips, just without all the fat and sodium! Be aware of rich dips that often accompany vegetable trays - stick with low fat dressing instead.
Ice Cream: Can you hear that? It is the merry sound of the ice cream truck entering the neighborhood! Did you know that a cup of regular vanilla ice cream contains:
Calories: 290, Fat: 16g, Carbohydrates: 34g.
Fit Fare: I have two great suggestions for this one. The first is to indulge in fresh seasonal fruit. Honey Dew Melon is a great place to start and is a classic summer treat. My second suggestion is delicious recipe you'll find on my website at www.tripleimpactcoaching.com - Strawberry Italian Ice. Made with fresh strawberries it is both delicious and fat free!
Go out on a limb and indulge in tasty, healthy food this summer. When you make a few small changes in your eating habits, like eating my 'Fit Fare' foods, you will reach your fitness and weight loss goals quicker than ever!
Looking for more ways to improve your health and physique? Want to sculpt the body of your dreams? Contact me to start your fitness program today!
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