At a Festival?

Canton Food Court

With Festival season around the corner and my recent visit to Canton, this post is focused on “festival food.”  What the heck do you pick when you are at a festival, fair, or a place like Canton?  Many treats pack a day’s worth of calories in one serving!  Here are a few tips to get you through your fun day without feeling overly full or like you just gained 10 lbs in one sitting…

1. Don’t buy the first treat you see.  Your eyes can fool you.  Many things look better than they taste.  When hunger strikes, really think about what you want and don't settle for something that just "looks" appetizing.  Find something you know you like and is worth the extra calories.
2. Have a couple bites.  Is your treat of choice a really high calorie item like a funnel cake?  Have just a few bites.  Eating a whole funnel cake or something of the sorts all by yourself is sure to send you into a sugar coma.  Treat yourself to a few bites and ditch the rest or give it away!
3. Share.  Have a favorite treat you can't resist?  Buy it, but share it.  Most festival treats are HUGE and since many of us belong to the "clean your plate" club, split the meal or treat with your buddy.  Or buy something that is already pre-portioned and not as big as your head.
4. Drink, drink, drink. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water! Being outside and in the heat without drinking water regularly can leave you dehydrated.  Sometimes dehydration tricks your body into thinking its hungry when all you really need is an ice cold glass of water or unsweetened iced tea.  Stay hydrated!



Roasted Corn? Yes, please!

5. Pick the healthier treats.  I saved this for last because it's my favorite.  Although few, there are healthy, tasty options at these places.  Heck, if you go to a festival in a place like Austin, TX, you will be surprised by all of the healthier, tasty options. But even in a place close to Dallas, one can find a healthier dish.  My mom and I had red beans and rice at Canton over the weekend.  It was delicious and I did not feel overstuffed or sluggish after. Other good options?  Roasted corn on the cob, chicken kabobs, chicken or turkey sandwich, small popcorn, small soft serve ice cream, etc.  Think GRILLED for any main course and SMALL for any treat!

Eat well,

Bri