Tips From a Holistic Nutritionalist

By: Megan Barefoot

Here in Calgary, the summers are short! We need to make the most of the time we have, and we love a good backyard BBQ. Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family for a delightful get-together, but it’s sometimes hard to find healthy choices. As a holistic nutrition consultant, I believe that good food can be both delicious and nourishing. With a little planning and mindful choices, you can host a healthy and satisfying barbecue that everyone will enjoy. Here are some tips to make your summer gathering a wholesome and delightful experience.

1. Embrace Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients! Make the most of summer's bounty by incorporating fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients into your menu. Choose vibrant fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, berries, corn, and tomatoes. These nutrient-rich options not only taste delicious but also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

2. Lean into the Lean Proteins! When it comes to grilling, choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, or tofu. Marinating them in herbs, spices, and citrus juices adds flavor without excessive sodium or added sugars. Avoid processed meats, which are often high in unhealthy fats and additives. Family gatherings at your house where you can control the grilling choices are great, or ask everyone to bring their own favorite grilling choices.

3. Diversify your Grill! While meat might be the centerpiece of a barbecue, don't forget to include plant-based options. Grilling vegetables like peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant can create tasty and nutritious alternatives. You can also prepare veggie skewers or homemade veggie burgers to cater to vegetarian or vegan guests.

4. Offer healthy Sides and Salads! Complement your main dishes with a variety of wholesome sides and salads. Try whole-grain options like quinoa or brown rice instead of refined grains. Prepare colorful salads with mixed greens, herbs, and an assortment of vegetables. Consider using homemade dressings or vinaigrettes to avoid the unhealthy additives found in store-bought alternatives.

5. Hydrate Mindfully! Hydration is key, especially on hot summer days. Offer a refreshing assortment of infused water, herbal iced teas, or homemade fruit spritzers instead of sugary sodas or artificially flavored drinks. Encourage your guests to stay hydrated throughout the day to support their overall well-being.

6. Sweet and Healthy Treats! Desserts can still be enjoyed while adhering to a healthy mindset. Offer healthier alternatives such as fruit skewers, frozen yogurt or sorbet, or homemade fruit-based desserts. These options satisfy the sweet tooth while providing vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Hosting a healthy backyard summer get-together gives you control over your grill and sides. It means prioritizing fresh, wholesome ingredients, making mindful choices, and creating a fun yet nourishing experience for guests of every age. By incorporating these tips into your BBQ planning, you can be sure that everyone will enjoy a delicious meal while also supporting their overall health. So, fire up the grill, embrace the season’s bounty, and savor the delights of a summer barbeque that leaves everyone nourished, satisfied, and powered up for more summer fun to come!

Are you looking to get even healthier? Are you finding it difficult to stay on track this summer? Could you use some help figuring out what foods you could add to your everyday diet to support getting to your summer goals? Curious about how nutritional health coaching can help you make healthy changes? Let’s talk! Schedule an initial complimentary consultation with us today—or pass this offer on to someone you care about! Visit www.noshoesnutrition.com and sign up for a FREE consultation.  We work with people from all over the world individually or in groups, so don’t let anything hold you back!