Avoid diet traps at Labor Day cookouts

September 7, 11:08 AMWilmington Nutrition ExaminerMaria Price

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Replace traditional hot dogs with veggie dogs at your Labor
Day cookout

As the last days of summer wind down, it’s tempting to ditch your diet and seek comfort behind loose jeans and baggy sweaters. Labor Day cookouts are a tempting way to start that downward spiral. Instead of ruining all of the hard work you did this summer, stick to the tips below and stay fit all year.

Party Drinks
When it comes to party drinks, avoid calorie-loaded cocktails like margaritas, pina coladas, and wine coolers. These drinks are packed with sugar and empty calories. Instead drink light beer or a waistline friendly, bloody Mary. If you can’t do without your end-of-summer margarita, ditch the pre-made mix and make your own with tequila, cointreau, fresh lime juice, and water.

Choose Your Meat Wisely
At the risk of sounding like an anti-traditionalist, hamburgers and hot dogs are the worst options in terms of meat. They’re high in fat and preservatives and can wreak havoc on your digestive system. If you’re the one cooking, try grilling chicken or fish instead. If you can’t pass up a burger or dog, bring your own vegetarian version. You should be able to slide it on the grill without too many eye rolls. Once it’s on the bun no one will be the wiser.

Watch out for Condiments
Condiments can also be a diet trap. If you like mustard, stick with that as it's the healthiest option. Mayo is by far the worst choice. Unfortunately, light or reduced calorie mayonnaise is a poor substitute. Instead, try mixing a bit of the real thing with ketchup, mustard, or even plain yogurt. You’ll save calories without killing your taste buds.

Portion Control
One of the main culprits to blowing any diet is mindless snacking. If you’re at a party and there are bowls of chips or pretzels, avoid them until you are able to fill a plate and sit down. A handful of chips here and there adds up quickly. You’re better off putting them on a plate so you can be mindful of how much you’re eating.