Here are some healthy snacks to take with you while you’re out savoring the carefree days of summer.
As you partake in popular summer activities, like trips to the beach, ballpark or street fairs, there’s no doubt that indulgent foods often go hand-in-hand with these outings. In fact, you may not be able to imagine a day by the boardwalk or a trip to cheer on your favorite team without your favorite summer snacks.
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If you eat healthy most of the time, giving in to an occasional splurge while you’re out enjoying yourself won’t sabotage your diet over the long-term. Just be mindful of what and how much you’re eating. Then get right back on track. Of course, there are some foods you should avoid if you have specific medical conditions, but the key to healthy eating is balance and moderation.
If you prefer to make healthier food choices while enjoying your favorite summer pastimes, here are some tips for doing so. We’ve also included suggestions for healthy summer snacks you can take with you when you’re on the go or that you can enjoy before you head out.
Healthy Summer Snack Ideas
At the Beach
The beach is the perfect place to bring your own cooler full of healthy snacks. Pack sandwiches, cut veggies, refreshing fruit, easy-to-eat snacks and plenty of bottled water to keep you hydrated. Here are some summer snack recipes to fill your beach cooler:
Still want a funnel cake, cotton candy, ice cream or pizza? Pick just one thing and make your treat count.
At Street Fairs, Festivals and Carnivals
Food is often the highlight of summer fairs, festivals and carnivals. And most of it isn’t heathy. Many of the options are fried and chock full of fat, sugar or sodium. It makes sense that you’ll want to enjoy something yummy while you’re there, but before you start indulging in one treat after another, survey the options and select one thing you just “have to have” and consider sharing with a friend. Then spend the rest of the afternoon getting some steps in while you enjoy the sights.
One way to avoid being wooed by all the unhealthy summer snacks offered at street fairs and other events is to eat something before you go. Since you won’t be hungry, you’re less likely to overindulge. If you want to make healthier choices while you’re out, look for fresh fruits and vegetables, enjoy a giant pickle (if you can handle the sodium content) or opt for grilled meat options like gyros (go easy on the sauce). If you want to bring your own healthy snacks to keep cravings at bay, pack a bag of this healthy trail mix.
At the Ballpark
While a hotdog and fries seems like the perfect ball game meal, most ballparks have plenty of other food options these days. Eat a meal before you go (you’ll save money) and if you still want ballpark fare, opt for healthy snacks like a small bag of peanuts or popcorn—hold the butter!
Want to get in the spirit before you head to the game or while you’re watching from home? Try these game day recipes:
Summer fun doesn’t have to doom your diet. Just be mindful of the summer snacks you eat while you’re out, eat before you go or bring along your own healthy snacks. Then spend the day outside walking, laughing and enjoying the sights—the activity will be good for your health in more ways than one.
