The 4th of July is the quintessential summer holiday, filled with family gatherings, barbecues, parties, and plenty of food and drink. commack dentists Dr. Artin Sakhaee and Dr. Michael Baharestaniand their team at Commack dental design encourage their patients to practice moderation during their July 4th celebrations, especially when it comes to the following foods!
Fat-Filled Burgers
Hamburgers are an undeniable favorite at a barbecue, especially during the summer. But the typical hamburger, while full of protein, is generally full of fat and cholesterol, which is not good for your overall health and a good food to avoid.
Can a hamburger ever be healthy? The team at Commack dental design says yes! Choose high quality beef from all-natural, organically raised cows, preferably from a local establishment. To ensure lower fat, choose a lean cut of beef that’s already ground or grind your own. Make reasonably portioned patties for your guests, or consider making smaller sliders to control calorie intake since it’s such a food-heavy day. Provide healthier toppings for the burgers, such as tomato-based salsa, sliced and prepared vegetables like lettuce and pickles, and even avocado.
Spicy Chili
A chili cook off might be in the 4th of July plans, but the consequences may be more than you bargained for. Spicy foods – like chili – can cause heartburn that will keep you up long after the last firework has exploded. If you’re sorely tempted by the chili regardless of the impending stomach upset, acid reflux or heartburn, try very small portions that are well-spaced throughout the party. Otherwise, it might be a good food to avoid!
Deep Fried Foods
Fried chicken is a picnic favorite, including on the Fourth of July, but there have been many deep fried foods to avoid that have joined the ranks, including:
- Onion rings
- French fries
- Zucchini
- Mozzarella sticks
- Twinkies
- Doughnuts
- Candy bars
One of the most common culprits of deep fried temptation are the bags of chips that are prolific during a barbecue of any kind. If the deep fried options are just too much of a temptation, consider choosing a small portion and savoring it carefully, balancing that choice with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables at the barbecue.
Sugar, Sugar, Sugar!
Sugar is everywhere during July 4th celebrations, no matter where you go. Prepare yourself mentally by bringing a fruit-based dessert option, like a fruit salad or festive fruit kabobs, and avoid the highly processed desserts that may be present. Keep in mind that those colorful and fun cocktails are full of sugar, too!
