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.

This is killing two birds with one stone! You get a nod for bringing something and now you're guaranteed to have something healthy to eat. Win-win! Here are some delicious side-dish recipes for inspiration.

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.

A cold beer on a hot afternoon is basically the only thing getting you through the week. But beer has more calories and carbs than opting for, let's say, a vodka soda with a twist of lime or these other low-cal cocktails.

Maybe you don't drink soda all of the time, but you're at a party — so why not? Stick to water instead (jazzed up with a slice of grapefruit) and have a scoop of that potato salad you've been eyeing.

We should all be doing this at every meal, but since many BBQ staples come with a less-than-ideal nutrition label (hello, pasta salad!), this is a time you definitely want to follow through and load up on the raw and grilled veggies. And according to certified dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition, eating tons of veggies is one of the best ways to lose weight.

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.

Just like you would any other meal, prepare your plate and that's it. Going into it knowing that you're only going to have one plate of food will keep you from overeating. Better yet, go for a smaller plate to keep portions in check.

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.

Eating outside is one of the simple pleasures of Summer, but you're likely to get hot. So beware of confusing thirst for hunger! Keep a glass of water, can of seltzer, or a reusable water bottle close by. Drinking water will also help prevent feeling bloated.

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!