Shake out the red and white checkered tablecloth, fill the cooler with ice and fire up the grill… because it’s summer barbecue season here in Massachusetts! And I’m here to tell you what to bring to your next barbecue so you can stay on track with your fitness goals all summer long.
Clients come to me wanting to lose those last 5-10 pounds of stubborn fat (especially in middle age) and while I teach you how to increase your metabolism so your body can stay in fat burning mode year round, my method includes much more than being in shape.
My goal for each of my clients (in addition to learning how to master your metabolism in midlife) is to free to enjoy all the events of life without limiting yourself!
Let’s start with what you have in hand…
When my family and I came with our friends for a fun week in the sun, Here’s what I drink on the beach:
- High noon — if you want to enjoy an alcoholic drink on the beach, High Noons are a great choice because they’re made with natural flavors (no added sugars), are gluten-free, have a lower alcohol content than wine or a mixed drink, and have less calories from a high-sugar margarita. If you’re tracking macros (which you definitely don’t need when you’re on vacation) use my tips here.
- Seltzer Waters — There’s something about being at the beach that makes you want to have something in your hand all day. Instead of drinking alcohol all day, I love a delicious seltzer water with fun summer flavors like Waterloo Tropical Fruit. There is no alcohol or sugar in them and you can make this drink more fun with a slice of lemon or a handful of frozen berries.
- Adaptogen Beverages — I’m a big fan of daily stress relievers, especially as a mom of little ones running wild on the beach! Adaptogens such as Ashwagandha they are known to help reduce stress levels, which in turn helps you get rid of stubborn belly fat. Studies show that adaptogens like ashwagandha are also known to improve your mood, balance your blood sugar and help you get a good night’s sleep! This drink is like all the best things from a glass of wine without any of the negative side effects. Try it Recess the Hop water which is delicious, comes in a simple tin and is perfect for a hot summer day..
Now what to put on your plate…
Instead of asking “what should I bring?” — Bring a protein and a vegetable to ensure your dish not only tastes delicious but will help you stay on track with your fitness goals and feel great in your body all day long .
Yes, there will be plenty of sides and treats to try — and you should! That’s why this strategy of arriving at an event armed with fruits, vegetables and protein helps you achieve balance.
Favorite dishes to bring to a summer barbecue:
- If you’re grilling, try chicken breast brush lightly with olive oil and drizzle with your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce or homemade barbecue sauce, which is almost delicious on a summer’s day. I love Primal Kitchen and Truemade Food brands.
- Chickpeas & Mediterranean Salad with olive oil and sea salt tossed with chopped romaine, red onion, black olives, cucumbers and roasted chickpeas for a little protein and fiber boost.
- Kabobs are the best of both worlds and include everything you need in one stick. Alternate portobello mushrooms, colored peppers and onions with marinated grass steak bites for the perfect healthy bite.
- Black Bean Salsa or ‘Cowboy Caviar’ they’re a perfect grilled fish for an added protein boost, or stack them with gluten-free chips like Siete for a high-protein savory snack.
The protein in the dishes you bring will help curb cravings, keep you satisfied, and keep your metabolism up by building muscle. The fiber in vegetables keeps your blood sugar balanced and helps you fight bloat, so you can feel good in your swimsuit all day long.
What to keep in mind…
When you’re consistent at home with your workouts and follow a balanced eating method (like my 6-week plan), you can let the all-or-nothing cycle be off again all summer long.
It’s important to know that after a few days of eating things you don’t normally eat, you might get it touch Results. And if you were to jump the scale (which I don’t recommend) you might even see a few pounds and that’s nothing to panic about. You did NOT gain fat after a few days of indulgence.
Your weight on the scale is affected by travel, water intake, salt and more than we realize. So instead of jumping on the scale, just pick up where you left off.
If you maintain muscle mass (with easy travel workouts like this one), your body will stay in fat-burning mode and you can feel confident that you’re on track all summer long.
Are you ready to learn how you can give up everything or nothing and see results?
