'Tis the season to get outside and enjoy a football game, but for many, the main event is really the tailgate party that happens before kickoff. But high-fat meats that are smoked, fried or grilled can derail anyone's diet efforts and make you sluggish before halftime. Other diet no-nos that should be punted from your party include creamy dips, mayonnaise-based salads, and lots of high-calorie spirits and beer. There are some sneaky substitutions you can make for the old standbys, and your partygoers will love some new additions.
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Bratwurst is a popular grill choice for tailgates, but the pork version can pack up to 450 calories and 37 grams of fat - more than half your allowance for the day! Replace them with chicken or turkey brats, and you'll save up to 30 grams of fat and about 150 calories. Throw some veggie burgers and marinated chicken breasts on the grill to replace those fatty burgers, and as it gets cooler, cook up a pot of protein-rich chili and all the fixings to warm up partygoers. Meat eaters surely would enjoy chicken skewers and meat-and-veggie kebabs. Marinate for extra deliciousness, and serve with dipping sauces if you like.
Make a layered bean dip to sneak some fiber and protein into the mix - refried beans, salsa, avocado, tomatoes, low-fat cheese and low-fat sour cream don't sacrifice flavor, just calories. {relatedarticles}Cut up lots of fresh veggies for dipping, and offer baked chips instead of regular. Have plenty of water and low-calorie bottled drinks on hand to keep everyone hydrated, and include light beer, wine and seltzer for spritzers if drinkers are attending.
