Meabh Connolly, Student Dietitian, Community Nutrition and Dietetics Service
While the weather may not be looking very much like summer weather at the minute, it’s coming into that time of year when the barbeques will be dragged out of the garage in order to try and make the most of any little bit a sun we get. From burgers, sausages and chicken to steak, breads and salads, the vast array of food is all very tempting and for most, a BBQ offers a social aspect with many family and friends meeting up on a warm summer’s day.
Although the flavours and wafting aromas of the various foods are all mouth-watering and extremely enticing, it is important to note that it is very easy as a result of this to overeat at a BBQ. A study carried out by Weight Watchers reported that on average a person consumes approximately 3,200 calories at a BBQ. This is roughly 1,000 extra calories than most people would eat on a typical day.
If you want to still make the most of any good weather, it is possible to have a BBQ with all the fun but cut back on the calories.
Opt for more of the salad options rather than the meat just one meat option rather than having a variety of them such as sausages, chicken, burgers or steak; don’t have the burger bun with the burger itself or go for one that is high fibre wholegrain; watch out for hidden calories from adding sauces and spreads; remember a fillet of fish, for example salmon could be a lovely nutritious alternative to meat; watch out for too much alcohol as this can be a major source of calories which could be cut down on by alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Overall, certain changes or substitutions can allow you to still enjoy your BBQ while also making it a little bit healthier, all weather depending of course!!
For more information or for more information on diet and nutrition, please contact: The Community Nutrition and Dietetic Service, HSE Dublin-Mid Leinster Tel: (044 ) 9395518 or email [email protected].
