PrintMembers: Join our team of experts as we answer all your questions in our online meeting “Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen” on April 5, 2010, at 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. EST and April 8th, 2010, at 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. EST.
I want to get my family outside more and I thought a picnic was a great idea. Suggestions on what to pack?
Ah, picnics… they take me back to my childhood. I used to love having picnics with my family on the beach enjoying the sun, having fun and eating good food! With the weather warming up (finally!), picnics are the perfect springtime setting for good family bonding and fun. It’s an excellent idea that makes it easy to sneak in healthy eating and physical activity that the whole family can enjoy.
There are endless options to fill that picnic basket up but keep balance in mind as you decide what to bring. “Snacky” options will be the best types of foods to pack — ones that include complex carbohydrates, lean protein and some healthy fat. You can use some of these suggestions or create some of your own:
- String cheese/low-fat cheese and whole wheat crackers (Triscuits)
- Hummus with baby carrots or whole wheat pita pieces
- Sandwiches (whole grain bread, pita or wrap – love the wraps!)
- Lean deli meat or tuna, chicken or egg salad (made with fat-free or light mayo)
- Lettuce and tomato
- Mustard
- Fresh fruit (apples, bananas, oranges, grapes and berries travel well) – lots of it (refreshing out in the sun, juicy and refreshing)
- Cut up veggies (easy to grab and go and low in calories)
- Healthy trail mix (you can buy or make your own blend with nuts, dried fruits, pretzels)
- Popcorn (not the movie-theater types!)
- Pretzels or baked chips and salsa
- Water (lots of it!)
And don’t forget to fit in some activity. If you are picnicking at a park, the beach or even your own backyard, take advantage of the beautiful weather and being outside! How about a friendly game of Frisbee, touch football, soccer or catch? This will get your heart rate up and help you burn some calories.
Enjoy your picnic and the quality time with your family!
Have a diet question for Pam? Email askpam@ediets.com and check back to see if your question is picked!
Looking for a way to make weight loss easier? With personalized meal plans and fitness routines, eDiets can help! Join now and save 25%!
Email Page
