Spring is a time when the weather gets warmer and the sunshine draws us outdoors more often. This can make us want to host garden parties and enjoy barbecues with friends and family. However, these pleasant occasions can also involve high-calorie foods and drinks, leading to a less pleasant outcome—weight gain.
How can you avoid gaining weight at a barbecue?
Spring garden parties and barbecues are part of life, and it is perfectly fine to enjoy higher-calorie foods and drinks in moderation. The important thing is to find a balance, be mindful of your food choices and watch your portion sizes. If you have indulged a little, do not feel bad—simply focus on making healthier choices going forward.
The problem is that garden parties and barbecues usually feature plenty of high-calorie foods, such as fatty meats, sausages, cheeses, potato salads, sugary drinks and sweets. Socialising in a festive setting can also make it easier to lose control of your eating and consume more calories. A bite here, another there, without even noticing. Sound familiar?
Add alcohol to the mix, and the impact is even worse. No, not only because of alcohol’s unhealthy effects on your body—although those matter too. Alcoholic drinks are also high in calories and often make you feel hungrier.
So how can you avoid gaining weight in spring and keep your weight under control?
Make mindful food choices
Choose healthier foods at garden parties and barbecues. Opt for skinless chicken, fish or vegetables on the grill, as these tend to be lower in calories and fat. Add fresh salads, fruit and vegetables to the menu as well. You can also try making healthier versions of your favourite recipes by using less fat, sugar and salt, for example.
Stick to controlled portions
Pay attention to how much food and drink you consume. Stick to controlled portions to avoid consuming too many calories. A barbecue does not have to be a place where you forget everything you know about healthy eating and give in endlessly to temptation. You probably know those mornings after overeating the night before—besides feeling unwell, you are often left with a nagging sense of regret.
Drink alcohol in moderation
If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Alcoholic drinks contain a lot of empty calories and can increase your appetite while reducing your self-control when it comes to food choices. This study also found that alcohol consumption increases appetite and food intake, which can lead to weight gain.
Choose lower-calorie options, such as white wine or drinks with a lower alcohol content. Remember to drink water as well to stay hydrated.
Find more information about the effects of alcohol and how to reduce your consumption on the Alkoinfo website!
And, of course—stay physically active!
Spring is a great time to be even more active outdoors. Make physical activity a regular part of your daily routine to burn more calories and stay in shape. When the weather is pleasant, go for a walk or a run, ride a bike or do some gardening. If the weather is poor or you would prefer a guided workout, choose one on FitQ. Even at midnight. Browse the selection of video workouts here!
You can also try new activities, such as having a picnic in nature, hiking or walking on the beach. Physical activity helps burn extra calories and keep your weight under control.
In summary, spring can be a time when weight gain is common because calorie intake may increase at garden parties and barbecues. However, you can keep your weight under control by making healthier food choices, watching your portion sizes and staying active. Finding the right balance is key to enjoying spring and summer in a healthy way while maintaining a suitable weight.
