Nutrition Tips For Summer BBQ's

Hi Everyone!
Since Fourth of July is right around the corner I know many people are nervous about the temptation of all the delicious barbecue food that can ruin your beach bod. Well there is no need to worry anymore because I have a few quick tips on how to still enjoy all the wonderful food without ruining your summer diet.
Did you know that most of the calories you find at barbecues and parties come from drinks? "Liquid calories" are a major contributor to the pounds you can gain during the summer. I mean of course its tempting  to try with all the yummy mixed drinks and sodas and punches that surround you during the summer but it is SO important to limit the amount you have. Instead of having mixed drinks stick to water with lemon or fruit to make it less boring or iced teas so you still have some reminder of summer. Mixed drinks and soda will also make you extremely bloated, which lets be honest is not very cute when your in a bikini but drinking water or lighter drinks and staying hydrated during the day will keep you going and flush and bloat out so your bikini ready anytime!
Now of course who doesn't love barbecue food? I mean really, your not American if you don't like a good barbecue. However, barbecues are known for their fat greasy food that can also make you extremely bloated and have hundreds of calories (even the salads!) so it is extremely important to make conscious choices when filling your plate. Make sure most of your plate is filled with veggies and fresh fruit along with some protein like chicken or a lean burger with no bun (you can also substitute the bun with lettuce). Try to limit the salads that have a lot of fat, like potato salad or coleslaw because even though they are "salads" the fat in them makes them far from healthy. If you really can't help yourself make sure you try everything in moderation. A small spoonful of potato salad won't hurt. Don't deprive yourself because you'll end up binge eating later.
Ice cream is a summer dessert hands down and is always around parties. Here is the rule I always follow, if your going to have dessert keep in mind about portion size, surprisingly a little taste of something will satisfy you more than eating an entire pint of ice cream and regretting it later. Since fruit is usually always at barbecues, opt for that instead and you can still have some ice cream.
My own rule of thumb is to never deprive yourself and have everything in moderation, its summer so your supposed to have fun! Keep a few of these tips an tricks in mind during your Fourth of July festivities and I promise you will see the difference.
I hope everyone has a wonderful fourth!
-Miranda