Stay on Track with Weight Loss at Summer BBQs

This post is part of our ongoing partnership with Jenny Craig. As always, all opinions are my own. 

Summer is full of BBQs, cookouts and parties! I know it's hard to not go crazy and fall back into old habits, but don't let those summer parties derail your weight loss! I'm down over 38 lbs since I joined Jenny Craig in January and I'm not letting go of my goals this summer!

I wanted to share some tips to help you succeed and have a happy and healthy summer (BBQs included)!

1. Exercise in the morning

Start your morning off with exercise! Getting your day off to a healthy start will make you feel better and set a reminder throughout the day.

2. Wear new form-fitting clothes

That new pair of shorts you love and that cute little tank? They probably won't look as cute if you help yourself to 3 hot dogs, a plate of chips, and a few beers. Wearing your new form-fitting clothes will remind you of your progress!

3. Eat before you go

It may seem like a smart idea to skip a meal before you go to the cookout so that you can eat there and it'll balance out, but it's not. If you skip a meal, you'll be extra hungry and more likely to make bad choices. If you eat your Jenny Craig meal before you go, you won't be starving and will eat less.

4. Bring a dish

Okay, this one is win-win! The host will think you're super nice for bringing a dish, but in reality – you're making sure you have a great, healthy option to choose from.

I love bringing a big salad packed with fresh veggies. Bring a few dressing options along to share also. It's something everyone can enjoy! You can also bring along your own Jenny Craig burger or grilled chicken sandwich to throw on the grill. You'll feel like the rest of the gang, but stay on plan.

5. Be social

We're going to these summer parties to socialize with friends and family, right? Well, do it! Grab a seat and spend some time talking!

6. Bring an activity

If you get bored at a BBQ, you may go looking for more food. Bring something fun to do like corn hole, horseshoes, badminton, or even a board game! It'll give everyone something to do and keep you from mindless eating!

7. Have a plan

Scope out what all there is to eat before you grab a plate. If you just grab food and keep going down the line, you'll probably keep seeing things you like even more and keep adding to your plate. Think about your plan ahead of time and stick to it!

8. Eat Slowly

This sounds like something we're always told, but I'll say it again. Eat slowly! Take time to actually enjoy your food and you'll wind up eating less. Put your fork down between bites and strike up a conversation during the meal.

9. Drink Wisely

Instead of the beer and cocktails, stick to water or a seltzer. Don't waste those extra calories on drinks!

10. Keep your goal in mind

While you're thinking about what all you're “missing” at the BBQ, think about how far you've come on your weight loss journey and keep your goal in mind!

As always, the great part about Jenny Craig is that you have a personal consultant that is there FOR YOU! Talk to them about an upcoming events you have and they'll help you develop a plan!