Fried, fried, fried – tenderloins, onions, elephant ears and even Oreos. With all these tempting fair treats, how can one enjoy the food while watching his waistline?
“Most fair food options are high in fat and carbohydrates, so plan to eat a good breakfast at home that is high in protein so you don't start off your day at the fair starving,” advises Leann Matlik, registered dietitian at the St. Francis Weight Loss Center. “Good choices would be eggs, yogurt or fresh fruits. If you're going to the fair later in the day, concentrate on eating your fruits and veggies before you go.”
Moderation is the key to staying on track with one’s diet. Experts recommend identifying a few foods you want and eating them.
“If it's elephant ears that you can't live without, then decide before you go that you'll be saying ‘no’ to cotton candy, salt water taffy, fried cheese, or milkshakes,” Matlik says.
Other tips for enjoying state fair cuisine:
- Share calorie-laden foods with a friend.
- Choose grilled foods instead of fried foods.
- Bring your own food to the fair.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid hunger pangs.
“If at all possible, avoid drinking your calories,” Matlik says. “Water is what your body needs to stay hydrated while you're outside in the heat, and you're much more likely to feel full after eating a treat than if you're drinking one.”
If you can resist the greasy delights, try seeking out the healthy food choices. The fair provides several diet-friendly options.
Healthier fair food options include:
- Reduced-fat milk
- Soy nuts
- Smoothies
- Lemon shake-ups
- Fresh fruit
- Corn without butter
- Tossed salads
- Vegetable kabob/chicken kabob
- Reduced-calorie/reduced-sugar foods.
