Making the Most of Your Summer Picnic

By Brandi Goodman 

Summertime brings sunshine, green leaves, and a beautiful outdoor atmosphere. It's the perfect time to enjoy a picnic outside with friends or family. Don't just pack up any sandwich and sides, though. You can make the most of your summer picnic by choosing the right foods and activities to bring along. 

A Picnic and Playtime

Sitting around eating may be enjoyable, but it's not keeping you as active as you need for your health. Add some playtime to your picnicking and you'll have the perfect time. Bring along a Frisbee or ball to play catch with and get everyone up and active. You could even choose to ride your bike to the location so that you get exercise both on the way there and the way back. 

Create a Watermelon Dish

Sure, a plain slice of watermelon is refreshing to enjoy. It can also be quite messy, leaving sticky fingers behind. Create a watermelon dish to bring on your picnic instead that you can eat with a fork or spoon. You'll still get that refreshing feeling without the mess. A watermelon, tomato, and feta salad is one option. 

Don't Skip Dessert

Dessert after the meal is a favorite part for many. Don't think you have to skip it just because you're trying to eat healthy. Just be sure to bring homemade treats instead of store-bought options. Lemon bars are great for summer and they can be made at home to reduce the calorie and sugar count. Use almond flour and coconut flour instead of the white version to get your healthy recipe off to a good start. Coconut oil, coconut sugar or honey, and almond extract are also part of the list along with your lemon.

A Picnic With Pinwheels

Instead of full sandwiches that are loaded with carbs, try pinwheels instead. These rolled up, easy-to-make finger foods can be packed with protein and nutrition. Add chopped meat and veggies to your tortilla to create your own version. Turkey avocado pinwheels are a great choice.

Picnics are a favorite summer pastime for many. They don't have to include the same boring sandwiches however. Make the most of your summer picnic by adding some playtime and bringing along some unique foods that everyone can enjoy. Being healthy and active can be fun as long as you make the best substitutions for yourself. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peachtree City, Ga.