1. Eat a healthy meal before attending an event.
If you go to these events hungry, you’ll be more easily tempted by the deep-fried festival foods and the assortment of appetizers and party treats.
2. Bring a healthier option to share at the party.
“Fruit salad is always great,” Nosek said. “Hummus and veggies is another great option. I also love a good Caprese salad: fresh basil, fresh tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, drizzle of a balsamic vinaigrette, a little salt and pepper, and you are good to go!”
3. Make your summer salad a little healthier.
Fresh summer salads sound really great, but we all know the calorie count in salads can be deceiving. Skip the cheese and the bacon! Stick with a simple olive oil and vinaigrette salad dressing – so simple you can you make yourself! Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, or use any dry or fresh seasoning you prefer.
4. Choose lean, fresh cuts of meat and fire up the grill.
You can grill anything – grilled chicken, fish, pork, lean beef and vegetables allow you to create a variety of healthy options throughout the summer. Use fat-free or low-fat marinades.
5. Take advantage of fresh produce
Visit your local farmer’s market and enjoy a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Slicing one cup of raw tomatoes for your lunch salad gives you as much as 40 percent of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C and 20 percent of your daily vitamin A. Beets, spinach and lettuce are in season throughout the summer months and contain protein and iron. Watermelon and fresh berries all have their own unique nutritional values as well!