Barbecue restaurants are popular destinations
for meat lovers, but the high-fat options can
make it a challenge to maintain a healthy diet.
However, with a few strategies, you can still
enjoy a delicious meal while making healthier
choices at the same time. Here are some tips
for making healthier choices when eating at a
BBQ restaurant with high-fat options:
Choose lean meats: One of the biggest sources
of fat in a barbecue restaurant is the meat
itself. Instead of choosing high-fat cuts like
brisket or ribs, opt for leaner options like
chicken breast, turkey, or pork loin. These
meats still have plenty of flavor and protein
but with less saturated fat.
Go for grilled or smoked options: Grilling or
smoking meat can help to reduce the amount
of fat that is retained in the meat. Plus, the
smoke flavor can add a delicious depth to the
taste. Avoid meats that have been fried or
sautéed, as these cooking methods often use a
lot of oil.
Choose healthy sides: Many barbecue
restaurants offer a variety of sides, from mac
and cheese to baked beans. Opt for healthier
options like grilled vegetables, green salads, or
roasted sweet potatoes. If you do choose a
higher-calorie side, try to keep the portion size
small.
Be mindful of sauces: Barbecue sauces can be
loaded with sugar and calories. Instead of
drenching your meat in sauce, try using just a
small amount or ask for the sauce on the side
so you can control the amount you use. You
can also try making your own healthier sauce
using vinegar, mustard, and spices.
Watch your portion sizes: Barbecue
restaurants are known for their large portion
sizes, so it can be easy to overeat. Try to be
mindful of your portion sizes and don’t feel
obligated to finish everything on your plate.
You can also ask for a to-go box and save some
of your meal for later.
Drink water: Barbecue restaurants often offer
sugary drinks like sweet tea or soda, which
can add a lot of empty calories to your meal.
Opt for water instead, which will help you stay
hydrated without adding extra calories.
In conclusion, you can still enjoy a delicious
meal at a barbecue restaurant while making
healthier choices by choosing lean meats,
grilled or smoked options, healthy sides, being
mindful of sauces, watching your portion
sizes, and drinking water. By following these
strategies, you can indulge in your favorite
BBQ dishes without sacrificing your health
goals.
