There are more than a few reasons hot dogs aren’t good for you – they are high in fat and calories, the meat content is sometimes questionable, and the inclusion of nitrates (a known carcinogen) added to keep the hot dog pink and free from botulism. But they taste so good, and the reality is that summer time equals hot dogs. How can we make this not so good choice better?

There are some delicious alternatives to the standard hot dog available.

• What about low-fat chicken or turkey dogs? Healthy Choice and Ball Park make low-fat choices that rate high on the taste scale.
• Applegate Farms sells an organic beef hot dog that contains no nitrates and is lower in fat.
• Trader Joe’s sells a store brand that is yummy.
• Vegan or soy dogs can be a good alternative.

Choose a whole wheat bun, ketchup and mustard free of high fructose corn syrup, and you have a lunch that is healthy and delicious!

Now, if only there was a way to make all the side dishes low in calories and fat free, I think I’d enjoy barbecues even more!

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Does a Healthy Hot Dog Exist?

Recent research has shown that spices like turmeric, cumin, cayenne pepper and countless others contain specific compounds that may help to stave off diseases. Here’s your guide to the best grilling spices to give your July 4th feast more nutritious flare!

Turmeric: Numerous studies have linked turmeric to reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol, and preventing and treating cancer cell growth. Curcumin, the substance in turmeric that gives it its trademark yellow color, is the magic compound behind most of these health benefits. To get the benefits of turmeric, add a few dashes to your Fourth of July potato or egg salad.

Cayenne Pepper: Capsaicin is the powerful compound in this fiery spice that imparts its heating qualities that have been linked to increasing metabolism, improving blood circulation, clearing nasal passages and jump-starting a sluggish metabolism. Cayenne pepper is also an excellent source of Vitamin A, a disease-fighting antioxidant.  Sprinkle a few meager dashes on pineapple rings, peach, nectarine or plum halves or mango wedges. Grill the fruit for a few minutes on each side and finish with a squeeze of Vitamin C-rich lime juice for a healthy twist on summer fruit.

Garlic: A member of allium family, garlic is one of the most beloved culinary condiments. Linked to preventing heart disease, boosting the immune system, regulating blood sugar levels and possessing antibacterial properties, it is no wonder that garlic has been used for medicinal purposes since 2560 BC. Add whole garlic cloves to chicken, steak, fish or veggie marinades before setting them on the grill. Or chop garlic finely and add it to ground meat, turkey or salmon to give your burgers a flavorful flare.

Ginger: This pungent spice has been shown to quell nausea, decrease joint pain from arthritis and reduce cholesterol levels making it a powerful ally in the fight against heart disease. While many sushi lovers are familiar with pickled ginger, for a speedy but tasty marinade, slice ginger in thin slices and add in soy sauce, sesame oil and a spoonful of honey. Let chicken breasts or steak rest in the marinade for 30 minutes and grill until done. Or try the Biggest Loser’s recipe for grilled salmon burgers with fresh ginger.

Happy grilling and happy Fourth!

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

4 Flavors to Spice up Your July 4th Cookout

Spicy Chai Grilled Chicken

Grilled Pork Roast

Cheeseburgers with Grilled Onions

Twice Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Grilled Salmon Burger

Caribbean Chicken Kabobs

The right marinade or rub can transform a simple piece of fish or chicken into a spectacular grilled dish.

Citrus Marinade

John McCain Rib Rub

And finally, serve lighter versions of classic sides to complete this Father’s Day feast.

All American Potato Salad

Deviled Eggs

Summery Black Bean Salad

Frozen Fruit Salad

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Healthy Recipes for Father’s Day Grilling

Cheeseburger with Grilled Onions
It’s an American classic that is no stranger to your backyard grill, and its flavor only complimented by the smoky grilled onions. Choose lean ground beef, combine it with fresh garlic, oregano and low-fat cheddar cheese and you’re looking at 194 Calories, 6.7g Fat.

Feta Stuffed Chicken Burger
Sometimes, the healthier option yields a tastier meal. Your mouth is in for one heck of a fireworks show with this Mediterranean-influenced chicken burger. Blend ground turkey with fresh herbs, feta cheese and roasted red peppers, then serve in a warm bun or pita. Each one has 286 Calories, 18g Fat.

Actually Delicious Turkey Burgers
What was nearly our feathered patriotic symbol is now the perfect dish for a lean cookout. You’ll want to gobble up every bite of these tender turkey burgers as you combine the ground turkey with fresh garlic and parsley. They’re just 208 Calories, 11g Fat.

Veggie Burgers
Exercise your right to vote this as one of the easiest and heartiest veggie burgers in the country. Ensure your vegetarian friends are enjoying the festivities and complimenting the chef when you serve these. Their made with a blend of white kidney beans, egg, bread crumbs and fresh vegetables, for only 124 Calories, 5g Fat.

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

4 Healthier Burger Recipes for the 4th of July

Grilled Rosemary Chicken – A savory, roasted flavor. 4 Weight Watchers Points, 194 Calories, 1g Carbs.

Grilled Pork Roast – Be patient with this one, that slow-cooked flavor is worth the wait. 5 Weight Watchers Points, 228 Calories, 0g Carbs.

Grilled Red Snapper with Herb Pesto – The bold pesto flavor is a perfect compliment. 4.5 Weight Watchers Points, 189 Calories, 7g Carbs.

Southwestern Grilled Sirloin – A spicier twist to the steaks you love. 4 Weight Watchers Points, 188 Calories, 2g Carbs.

Caribbean Chicken Kabobs – A fun finger food for any cookout. 3 Weight Watchers Points, 152 Calories, 1.7g Carb.

Grilled Halibut with Pineapple – This grilled fish and pineapple tastes like summer. 6 Weight Watchers Points, 300 Calories, 1.0g Carb.

Post from: Diets in Review Blog

Get out and grill!