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Don't Let the BBQ Party Ruin Your Waistline

 

Here is a great article from Shape.com about cutting calories at those summer BBQ's....

 

 

 

Hot dogs, ribs, potato salad…a typical plate of food at a barbecue can weigh in at 1,500 calories-and that's before you go back for seconds. While indulging once or twice won't wreck your waistline, regular backyard get-togethers can pack on the pounds. Follow this guide and you'll stay bikini-slim all summer long.

SNACK
There's nothing wrong with a little nosh before the main event-just be mindful of where you dip your chip.

Best
Tortilla chips with salsa
(11 chips, 2 tbsp. dip): 151 calories, 7 g fat (Switch to a baked variety to cut 33 calories and 4 grams of fat.)
Pretty Good
Tortilla chips with guacamole
(11 chips, 2 tbsp. dip): 209 calories, 16 g fat
Worst
Potato chips with ranch dip
(11 chips, 2 tbsp. dip): 301 calories, 26 g fat

 

MAIN COURSE
The trick to making grilled meat more diet-friendly: Curb portion sizes by pairing it with plenty of veggies. You'll fill up your plate, so you won't feel deprived.

Best
2 beef and veggie kebabs
(with 2 oz. sirloin and 1 cup tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms): 146 calories, 11 g fat
Pretty Good
Hot dog
345 calories, 19 g fat
Worst
3 barbecuepork ribs
594 calories, 34 g fat

SIDE
Grilled corn on the cob has a fraction of the calories in mayonnaise- or oil-drenched salads.

Best
Corn on the cob
(1 ear): 59 calories, 1 g fat
Pretty Good
Pasta salad
(1 cup): 240 calories, 1 g fat
Worst
Potato salad
(1 cup): 358 calories, 21 g fat

What should you drink? Is dessert an option? Head over to Shape.com to find out.