July 4th is such a fun holiday to gather with friends and family and enjoy delicious food and outdoor activities. Food is usually a very large part of this holiday, as it should be! Making fun recipes and eating delicious food is very enjoyable. There are a few very easy switches that you can make to improve the nutritional value of typical “grilling” type foods. Enjoy the day and truly embrace the quality time with your family!
- Switch to whole grains.
- This is one of the easiest switches you can make! Instead of purchasing white buns and bread, purchase things that are made of whole grains.
- Use fruit where you can!
- Everybody seems to love refreshing fruit on a hot summer day so add fruit in where you can. You can even do something as cool as making a watermelon cake instead of cupcakes or in addition to them. Another option is to make fruit kabobs and a fresh fruit salad.
- Add in your Veggies.
- Veggies can be added to many salads or slaws. A veggie pizza is always a good option and so delicious!
- Choose lean meats.
- Be sure to use meats such as chicken, turkey, or 90% lean hamburger.
- Offer non-alcoholic alternatives.
- It can be super easy to sip on alcoholic drinks throughout the day but if you have alternatives around it could help remind you to choose other options. Sparkling water with fresh fruit is very hydrating and satisfying.
These are a few easy things that you can implement into your 4th of July for a fun and healthy day! For more recipes and ideas for food to make, click HERE! Have a fun and safe Fourth with your family and friends!
Kylie Serie, SDSU Dietetic Student
