How to eat healthy at a summer BBQ

Summer is finally here. Time to get outside and enjoy some of your favorite hot-weather eats and treats. But if you don't want your waistline to get bigger than a beach ball by the end of August, check out these tips for making the most of your summer BBQs!

1. Don't go in starving. Walking into a smorgasbord of deliciousness on an empty stomach is an invitation for disaster. Eat a quick healthy snack before you head out. Try a piece of fruit, some trail mix or a granola bar to take the edge off. Something with fat and fiber will help to fill you up a bit.

2. Come bearing gifts (of health). No one likes a guest who shows up empty handed, so make your contribution a guilt-free one. Think veggie and hummus tray, fruit platter, shrimp cocktail, or whole-wheat pasta salad loaded with veggies.

3. Beware the booze. Alcohol itself has quite a few calories. Once you add mixers, the calorie count can really start to soar. Opt for pairing your booze with water, seltzer or diet soda. Choose a light beer - there are several under 100 calories per bottle. And of course, drink in moderation. The lower your inhibitions, the less self-control you may have near that cookie tray.

4. Steer clear of the mayo. Cole slaw, potato salad, macaroni salad and other creamy dishes are seriously calorie-dense. A half-cup portion of these decadent sides is worth about 230 calories each. If you can't skip 'em all together, give yourself a small serving of each, allowing them to fill no more than a quarter of your plate.

5. Make the most of your meat. Grilled chicken breasts, turkey burgers and veggie burgers/dogs have far fewer calories than hot dogs, burgers and steaks. Consider going bun-less or sans cheese here and there.

6. Dip, dip, hooray! Dips made with sour cream, cheese and mayo are dangerous on their own. Add the tortilla and pita chips and things could get really treacherous. If you're the dip chef, consider swapping Greek yogurt in for sour cream and serving crunchy cut up veggies on the side. Or go wild with salsa (mango, pineapple or traditional) or some zesty guacamole!

7. A rainbow of color. Put some fruits and veggies onto the grill! Wrap husked corn on the cob in foil with a little olive oil and seasonings of your choice. Slice and dice fresh zucchini, asparagus and mushrooms and toss with a little oil or light marinade. Grilled pineapple and peaches topped with vanilla ice cream make a remarkably delicious BBQ dessert.

8. Condiment conundrum. Here's a little breakdown of how the little extras can add up:

----------

Read more Goal Getter for healthy eating, weight loss and more.