Brunch is a great way to spend time with family and friends. Usually popular on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, this food fest can be overwhelming and too much of a temptation if you are trying to watch what you eat. With proper planning and preparation beforehand, you can enjoy eating brunch, and benefit from making healthy choices without feeling deprived. Follow our tips for successful brunching.
- Plan before the big day. Call ahead to find out what type of brunch meals are offered and the type of foods available. Pre-plan what you are going to eat before you get to the restaurant.
- Have a small bite before you go. To take the edge off, eat a light snack – fruit with peanut butter, a hard boiled egg or a cup of tea – an hour or two before the brunch. Doing so will keep you from overeating. Remember: our eyes can be bigger than our stomachs.
- Drink water before and during the meal. Water keeps you feeling full, thus less tempted to overeat.
- Start with a broth-based soup to help curb the appetite.
- Before you fill your plate, walk around and survey the food stations. Make a mental note of the good and bad options, and think about what you want. Choose lean protein that is grilled, baked, boiled or steamed. Good options are usually the seafood and omelet stations, which are considered healthy meals. Be sure to ask the cook for non-stick spray instead of butter at the omelet station.
- Fill half your plate with fruit and vegetables, a quarter with protein and a quarter with complex carbs.
- Avoid buttery laden foods, heavy sauces and creamy salad dressings.
- Artisan breads are a brunch-time favorite. Be sure to choose whole grain or whole wheat breads. If not sure, ask the staff.
- For dessert, opt for fresh fruit.
- Skip the alcoholic drinks, pastries/muffins/breads, meats/sausages, French toast/ pancakes/crepes, cheese, mayo-based salads, hash browns and the like. These foods are high in calories, no matter how good they look or smell.
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