Last summer I did my annual 21 day cleanse. I do this every year with my nutritionist and it’s hard core. Nothing but veggies and fruits for the first 11 days. Then, we slowly add in healthy grass fed meats and fish. For the entire 21 days I have no sugar, grains of any kind, soy or nuts. I usually drop about 10 pounds and feel lighter and brighter.
What’s frustrating about it is that once I’m finished, BBQ season begins. Once BBQ season hits and everyone invites me to their house, I show up and bam! Piles of meat & unhealthy carbs bombard my eyes and belly. This takes my 21 days of cleansing and throws it right out the window.
Summer after summer I have come across this dilemma with serious irritation. I want to go and enjoy a nice BBQ at someone else’s house without having to lift a finger, but I feel terrible afterwards! This year instead of letting BBQ season tackle me, I’m tackling it. This Memorial Day I created my own rules and they are working great!
This Summer, I decided to bring my own food even if I’m told not to. It’s my health and it’s my body and what I put in it is important.
Here are my 4 stay-healthy rules I will be using this BBQ season:
- I will be taking my own water. Yes, I will show up with a gallon or two of water to share with everyone. This will ensure there are non-sugary beverages available for me.
- I will be taking my own hot dogs. I will be taking my own hot dogs that I know are nitrate and hormone free. I love Applegate. I think their products are great and hey, I’m not going to eat a whole package by myself, so maybe I’ll convert a few people to a healthier hot dog alternative. If I can’t find hot dogs or find myself not really in the mood for one, I’ll take some fresh veggies to throw on the grill. Who doesn’t love a good portobello burger? Don’t stop there, you can also take zucchini or yellow squash and simply slice them in half, brush them with some olive oil, add salt & pepper, and throw them on the grill for a nice non-meaty alternative.
- I will be taking some delicious side salads that I enjoy! Easy summer salads I love are Tuscan tomato salad, cucumber & red onion salad, baby kale with beets & pistachios, and of course, a simple fruit salad. That way I’m noshing on veggies and fruit instead of ice pops or ice cream.
- I will be eating at home before leaving! If you’re not into taking your own food and don’t want to cook for everyone, eat at home before you go. That also ensures that you’re eating healthy. Besides, you don’t have to do any cooking for anyone else but yourself.
Whatever you do make sure you bring enough food to share. You don’t have to bring enough for everyone, but don’t show up with a small container of food just for yourself. Think of it this way: making enough for others to try will be doing them a service by opening up their minds to some healthier alternatives that they just might like.
This summer make your own rules to keep you healthy and remember this isn’t only for you. You never know how many people you may convert into healthy vegetable lovers after they eat a simple side dish you made.
What rules are you making for yourself this summer to stay healthy and on track? Let us know below in the comments. I love to hear creative ways to stay healthy.
What simple side dishes can you make to ensure you have some healthy dishes available at any BBQ? Share your recipes with us below.
Thank you for sharing, reading and adding to the conversation. Hearing your voice makes me happy.
Dance daily, Eat well & Laugh a lot
Angela