How to Eat Healthy at the State Fair
State fairs come around once a year and are packed to the brim with vendors selling all sorts of deep fried delicacies like corn dogs, funnel cakes, fries or basically anything that can be fried and served on a stick. If you want to enjoy the state fair festivities without wrecking your healthy diet, you don't have to avoid the food stands altogether. Be more selective and let the large selection of food work for you by choosing satisfying and tasty foods that are still healthy.
Instructions
-
-
1
Eat a small, healthy snack like an apple or a handful of almonds before going to the state fair. Although it may seem counterproductive to consume more food beforehand, if you go to the fair while you are famished, you may not have the willpower to make smart food choices.
-
2
Select an entrée that is mostly protein--you'll feel fuller than if you just eat carbohydrates like potatoes or desserts. Avoid the fried choices or anything topped with cheese, bacon or other dressing. Opt for healthier, leaner protein cuts like tenderloin, roast or even bison burgers.
-
-
3
Look for the grill or smoker food stands for your side dishes instead of getting the standard French fries or other fried accompaniments. Choose grilled corn on the cob or other grilled or smoked vegetables for a healthier side dish.
-
4
Pick just one high calorie treat to eat in that is only available at the fair, such as a funnel cake or other novelty food, and that you cannot eat any other time year, if you don't want to feel deprived. Choose the smallest portion size or split it with another person, so you can limit the number of extra calories while still indulging.
-
5
Drink bottled water with your food to keep calories down. Choose smaller sizes instead of the mega-size if you really want soda, juice or another type of beverage, because the calories in beverages can add up.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Check your state fair's advertisements to see if the event offers a "graze day" or any other special events in which vendors offer smaller sample-sized portions so you can more easily control your portion size.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or a pedometer that tracks how many steps you take, then walk as much as possible as a way to burn off any extra calories.
Do not skip beverages as a way of keeping calories down or you risk becoming dehydrated, especially if the state fair takes place on a hot day.
