Ahh, fall! Pumpkins, football, and then it is time for the "eating season."  Unfortunately, here in the South, everything seems to revolve around food, and not bariatric friendly food. For many people who have made the commitment to a healthy lifestyle, that choice seems incompatible with all of these events that revolve around junk food. From the high fat meats, dips, and chips at tailgate parties to the endless candy at halloween, pies and baked goods from Thanksgiving until excessive alcohol at New Year's, it can be extremely difficult to achieve your personal health goals. So how do you make it through? Have a game plan - take it one food item and one meal at a time. Ask yourself, does this food or beverage or choice help me towards my health goals? And have a plan for making your meal. Always bring a safe choice, but know what and how much to put on your plate. Aim for half of your small (6-inch) plate to provide lean protein. Make at least 1/3 of your plate colorful, tasty vegetables. Limit fruits and grains to about 1/6 of the plate - just enough to satisfy. 

But good-for-you choices don't have to be boring and bland! Check out these recipes for some ideas for festive, health friendly foods:

Slow-cooker BBQ Chicken

New twist on hummus

Baked crispy zucchini fries

Fruit and Cheese Kabobs

Don't forget to sip on slimming beverages as well! After finishing one plate, wait thirty minutes and stick to hydrating choices that are low sugar and alcohol free. One possible choice, if you can tolerate some fizz is a Crystal Light Sparkling Lemonade. 

Crystal Light Sparkling Lemonade
1 pkt Crystal Light Pure Lemonade Mix
1 cup water
1 cup seltzer water

Combine all ingredients and serve over ice. Garnish with mint or a fruit slice!

Questions or comments? Email me at Marlena Farley