Avoiding high-calorie foods at picnics

[LoriPA 4]

With Memorial Day weekend in full swing here in the US, there will be plenty of picnics happening around the country. As with any special event, picnics can either be a pitfall or a pleasure for people on special diets and even those of us that have had medical/surgical interventions.

Some good ideas to keep in mind on enjoying a picnic without paying the price later:

Mindless eating at picnics during Memorial Day weekend will kill a week's worth of weight loss for those who have had the LAP-Band surgical procedure (thanks for the info, Wendell!).

Avoid potato chips and snack crackers at all costs. Those innocuous-looking little Snacks add up in calories.

Hot dogs: Very high fat content, and if one really knew what was in them, well, let's just say they wouldn't be so appetizing. If you must have a hot dog, aim for the Hebrew National brand or some other Kosher hot dog.

Burgers: Personally, I do not consume red meat, and for those other non-red meat eaters, both veggie and turkey burgers are excellent alternatives. Whatever you may choose, the burger has less calories without the bun...and overload of Condiments.< /p>

Ice cream: Another trap for fat and calories. Opt for the no-sugar kind, Italian ice, sorbet, or sherbet instead. Better yet, steer clear of it altogether.

Alcohol: Empty calories. If you must drink, make sure you have a meal first and keep drinks to a minimum. Calories should go toward food.< /p>

Sodas: Do you have any idea what is IN that stuff, besides a large load of sugar? Try a sugar-free alternative, or the better alternative, bottled Water.< /p>

Cakes, chocolates, Cookies, and appetizers may taste good, but calories add up. Go for the green salads and veggie plates (avoiding the dip)for in-between meal munchies.

Planning what you are going to have at a picnic and eating according to your meal plan are the best ways to avoid high-calorie pitfalls during a picnic, while enjoying yourself at the same time. Happy Memorial Day!

[PaulaD 0]

Thank you! I am only 10 days post op and went to a cookout today. Had my Water and pudding. Not too bad. This was a choice I made and can live with it!!!