“Dishes & Drinks to bring to your next Summer BBQ (that help you stay on track)”  – Sarah Fit

Shake out the red & white checkered tablecloth, fill up the cooler with ice, and fire up the grill…  because it’s Summer BBQ season here in Massachusetts!  And I’m here to tell you what to bring to your next grill out so that you can stay on track with your fitness goals all summer long.

Clients come to me wanting to lose those last 5 -10 pounds of stubborn fat (especially in midlife), and while I teach you how to turn up your metabolism so your body can stay in fat burning mode all year long, my method involves so much more than getting fit.  

My goal for every one of my Clients (besides learning how to master your metabolism in midlife) is to be free to enjoy all of life’s events without restricting yourself! 

Let’s start with what’s in your hand…

When my family and I joined our friends for a fun-filled week in the sun, here’s what I drink on the beach: 

• High Noons — if you want to enjoy an alcoholic drink on the beach, High Noons are a great option since they are made with natural flavors (no extra sugars), are gluten free, have a lower alcohol percentage than wine or a mixed drink, and have fewer calories than a high sugar margarita. If you are tracking macros (which you certainly don’t need to while on vacation) use my tips here.

• Seltzer Waters — there is something about being on the beach that makes you want to have something in your hand all day long.  Instead of sipping on alcohol all day long, I love a tasty seltzer water with fun summer flavors like Waterloo Tropical Fruit.  There is no alcohol or sugar in these and you can make this drinkie more fun with a slice of lemon or handful of frozen berries.  

• Adaptogen Beverages — I’m a huge fan of daily adaptogens to help manage stress especially as a mom of young kids running wild on the beach! Adaptogens like Ashwagandha are known to help lower your stress levels which in turn helps you to get rid of stubborn belly fat.  Studies show that adaptogens like ashwagandha are also known for improving your mood, balancing your blood sugar, and aiding in a good night’s sleep!  This drink is like all the best things from a glass of wine without any of the negative side effects.   Try Recess or Hop Water which is delicious, comes in a simple can, and is perfect for a hot summer day..

Now what to put on your plate…

Instead of asking “what should I bring?” — bring a protein and a veggie so that are can feel confident that your plate will not only taste delicious but also help you stay on track with your fitness goals and feel amazing in your body throughout the day. 

Yes, there will be plenty of side dishes and treats to try — and you should!  Which is why this strategy of arriving at an event armed with fruits, veggies, and protein helps to give yourself balance.  

Favorite Dishes to bring to a Summer BBQ: 

• If you are grilling, try chicken breast lightly coated with olive oil and baste with the your favorite store bought or homemade BBQ sauce which feels almost indulgent on a summer day. I love Primal Kitchen and Truemade Food brands.

• Chickpea & Mediterranean Salad with olive oil and sea salt tossed with chopped romaine, red onion, black olives, cucumbers, and roasted chickpeas for a little protein and fiber boost.  

• Kabobs are the best of both worlds and include everything you need on a stick.  Alternate portobello mushrooms, colored peppers and onions with marinated grass fed steak bites for the perfect healthy bite. 

• Black bean salsa or “Cowboy Caviar” is a perfect grilled fish topper for an added protein boost or scoop them up with gluten free chips like Siete for a salty high protein snack.   

The protein in the dishes you bring will help you to curb cravings, feel satisfied, and maintain your metabolism boosting muscle.  The fiber in the veggies keeps your blood sugar balanced and helps you resist bloating so you can feel good in your swimsuit all day long.  

What to keep in mind…   

When you are consistent at home with your workouts and follow a balanced nutrition method (like my 6 week program) you can let go of the all or nothing cycle of being on again off again all summer.  

It’s important to know that after a few days of eating things which you normally don’t, you may feel the effects.  And if you were to hop the scale (which I don’t recommend) you may even see it up a few pounds and that is nothing to panic about.  You did NOT gain fat after a few days of enjoyment.  

Your weight on the scale is affected by travel, water intake, salt, and so much more than we realize.  So instead of hopping on the scale, just pick up where you left off.  

If you are maintaining muscle (with easy travel workouts like this one), your body will stay in fat burning mode and you can feel confident that you are on track all summer long.  

Ready to find out how you can let go of all or nothing and see results?