What's 4th of July without a BBQ? Of course, you want to celebrate your independence, but should it come at the price of your diet? It's easy to engage in mindless eating in the heat of the moment. However, you won't believe how quickly you can derail your weight loss efforts. A 4-ounce hamburger weighs in at about 290 calories and 22 grams of fat, while a Bratwurst sausage is 300 calories and 25 grams of fat. Top that burger with cheese and that's another 94 calories and 7 grams of fat per ounce of American cheese. - and don't forget the 160 calories and 6 grams of fat per bun. A beef hot dog will cost you about 180 calories and 17 grams of fat. Of course, who stops at just one burger or dog? When you add 1/2 cup of potato salad, that's another 179 calories and 10 grams of fat.
A 1/2 cup serving of cole slaw is only slightly better with 150 calories and 8 grams of fat. One ounce of potato chips will also tack on 150 calories and 10 grams of fat. The good news is that there are plenty of healthier alternatives that don't come at such a high price. You can enjoy the festivities without feasting on high-calorie, high-fat foods. Take a grilled chicken breast for example. That will only set you back 120 calories and 1.5 grams of fat. A 1/2 cup serving of salsa with one ounce of fresh veggies comes in at just 76 calories and 0 grams of fat. Who can forget dessert? Instead of a slice of apple pie that will set you back 280 calories and 15 grams of fat, opt for a cup of fresh blueberries for just 83 calories.