Fourth of July cookouts are filled with burgers, hot dogs, chips, desserts, and sugary drinks, but according to one culinary medicine expert, the biggest threat to your nutrition isn’t any single food. It’s how much of everything ends up on your plate.
“Overeating is the biggest challenge,” said David Dungan, MD, director of Duly Health and Care’s Culinary Medicine Department. With buffet-style spreads and endless snacking opportunities, it’s easy to consume far more calories than you realize. His simplest advice? Stick to one plate and take small portions of the foods you really want to enjoy.
These Simple Food Swaps Can Make a Big Difference
If you’re looking to make healthier choices without giving up your favorite barbecue foods, Dungan recommends these simple swaps:
- Choose a whole-grain bun when available—or skip the bread altogether.
- Load up on produce. Fill your plate with fresh fruit, vegetables, or salad instead of fries, potato salad, macaroni and cheese, or chips.
- Rethink your drink. Swap soda, sweet tea, lemonade, sports drinks, or energy drinks for water or zero-calorie seltzer. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime can make plain water more refreshing.
Small changes like these can help you enjoy the holiday meal while keeping your nutrition goals on track.
Related: This Simple Change to When You Eat Could Help You Stay Healthier Longer
Watch Out for These Hidden Calorie Traps
Some cookout staples that seem harmless can quietly add sugar, sodium, and calories. Dungan points to store-bought baked beans, which often contain large amounts of added sugar, along with bottled marinades that can be packed with sodium. Creamy coleslaw, salad dressings, and dips are also common sources of saturated fat and excess calories.
Yes, You Can Still Eat Burgers and Dessert
That doesn’t mean burgers, hot dogs, or dessert are off the menu. Dungan recommends choosing leaner meats, such as burgers made with 90/10 or 93/7 ground beef, and keeping desserts to one modest serving. If you’re shopping for burgers, PRE’s 92% Lean Grass-Fed Ground Beef offers a lean option that’s 100% grass-fed and finished, with 23 grams of protein per serving.
His biggest takeaway for the holiday is simple: eat slowly, stay hydrated, enjoy one plate, and make room for nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. That approach lets you celebrate without feeling like you’ve erased months of healthy habits.
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Author: Joseph Arangio







