Stay slim this braai season!

Sometimes it can seem almost impossible to stay slim during braai season (summertime), but the good news is – you can!

All you need to do is follow a few simple tricks, and you’ll still be able to enjoy having a good time with family or friends around the braai – without feeling guilty about it.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Bring or make your own healthy dish, such as a fresh fruit salad or a roasted veggie salad.

• While the fire’s going, snack on carrots, cucumber and celery instead of chips. Substitute a creamy dip with a low-fat homemade dip instead - using avocados, low-fat cottage cheese or yoghurt.

• Substitute the mayo for some low-fat yoghurt, and tomato sauce for fresh tomato salsa over burgers and hotdogs.

• Choose chicken, ostrich or fish instead of beef. These are lower in calories compared to regular meat.

• Control your portions. Your carbs should be about the size of your fist rolled up, a meat portion is about the size of your cell phone, and salad dressing is roughly the size of your thumb.

• Have one low calorie cider or drink, and then stick to water with lemon or ice teas for the remainder of the braai.

• Avoid the temptation to keep eating by moving around. Play an outside game of soccer, or go for a walk around the block once your plate is clear.

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