17 Ways to Eat Healthier at a BBQ Without Feeling Like You're Missing Out

Wait, what? Isn't that what you're going to the BBQ for? If you're not sure if there will be healthy options, it's better to eat before you go so you won't be backed into a corner of having nothing but unhealthy things to eat.

Sorry, carb-heavy buns, but at least one of you has to go! Or you could go for a bun made from veggies like sweet potatoes, tomato, or grilled portabello mushrooms.

It can be easy to gravitate toward the chip bowl for just a "couple" to snack on. But those empty calories won't do any good for your hunger, so focus your eating on the healthy options main course coming off the grill like salmon or homemade sweet potato veggie burgers.

Those starch-filled dishes aren't doing your Summer goals any favors! Stick with protein-based options, like chickpea avocado salad, and, if possible, ditch the red meat.

It's pretty difficult to mindlessly eat when you're catching up with different people around the BBQ. So don't just plop yourself in a chair next to the chips and dip for five hours! Get up and keep busy with friendly conversation and maybe a light game of bocce.

This probably isn't the first time you've heard how bad red meat can be for you. So if there's an option for a turkey, salmon, chicken, or veggie burger, you've hit the jackpot!

Our hearts broke when the truth was uncovered about ketchup (spoiler alert: it's loaded with sugar). Try a better alternative like avocado, hummus, or avocado hummus.

Couldn't resist grabbing a hot dog, hamburger, potato salad, and a couple of beers? Enjoy it! But for dessert, stick with a little fruit or just skip it.

Staring down that chip bowl like it's the last one on Earth? Always have a glass of water in your hand, grab a badminton racket, or become best friends with the raw veggie platter to keep your hands from mindlessly noshing.

Fruit salad on a hot Summer day always hits the spot! And although fruit is essential for a balanced diet, many are filled with a high count of natural sugar — so keep that in mind before diving in.

Before you head out, prepare your favorite healthy dish for when you get back. A little incentive to keep in your mind will make it easier to turn down that brownie!