The summer season is often filled with events from graduation parties to barbecues to Fourth of July festivities. But, at these events it can often be difficult to decipher what food to fill up your plate with. Here are some tips and ideas on how to make healthy choices at these summer festivities.

 

Protein/Entree:

• Choose lean meat options such as turkey, chicken breast, or fish.
• Use condiments that are low in calories such as mustard, pickle relish, and salsa.

Sides:

• Choose fruit or vegetable side dishes, such as grilled vegetables.
  • The summer season is full of great produce options.
    • Some seasonal vegetables include summer squash, cucumbers, green beans, zucchini, and bell peppers.
    • Some seasonal fruits include blueberries, peaches, strawberries, cantaloupes, apricots, and more!
• Avoid sides that contain pasta, bread, or rice.

Drinks:

• Choose water over sugar-sweetened beverages.
• If you want to add something extra to your drink, try water with lemon, strawberries, mint, or cucumber for extra flavor.

Eating healthy does not mean avoiding good food, it just means shifting your mind and choices to include more nutritious food. With these tips, hopefully you can feel more comfortable about making healthy choices at your next summer event.