The Fourth of July is popularly known for fireworks and cookouts, but this holiday the Coastal Bend Food Bank wants to make sure families are eating healthy.
Food experts say your health is extremely important.
Furthermore, while you might be tempted with holiday pies and cakes, dietitians also say there are other food alternatives to consider.
Your Fourth of July holiday cookout may have steak, hot dogs, or burgers on the menu, but health professionals with the Coastal Bend Food Bank say those items on the grill need to be supplemented with fruits and veggies.
Dietitian Kate Hilliard says these foods are a great source of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.
“I always like to recommend to grill some more vegetables on the side and there's a lot of vegetables you don't always think about grilling.” Hilliard adds, “Things like romaine lettuce, you can do zucchini, eggplant, even fruits like pineapples and peaches.”
Another very important tip to keep in mind is that if you are going to be outside grilling, keep plenty of liquids around is extremely important.
“A big thing is making sure that both adults and kids stay hydrated if they are going to be out especially grilling or have any outdoor activities, make sure that they are drinking enough water because as soon as you're thirsty, you are already dehydrated,” she said.
Also, dietitians say frozen fruits like grapes, bananas, and watermelons are great snacks for children and have high nutritional values.
For more information on educational health tips click here.
