A Waist-Friendly Bash

This upcoming Labor Day weekend can easily be considered another reason to let loose and party—and it is. But in case you missed the hot dog memo, many of the foods you will be munching on are not members of the healthy-things-to-eat food group. Still, you don’t want to be the host who serves guests peanut butter sandwiches and filtered water. Here are a few tips to keep your diet on track while making your guests happy. Your waistline will thank you on Tuesday morning.
 
* Cut veggies—carrots, cucumbers, peppers—in advance to help ease pre-party preparation stress. These are a great mingle-while-eating, healthy snack.
 
* Use lean ground beef for burgers and try grilling up some turkey hot dogs or chicken sausages. You may also want to try lean ground turkey or veggie burgers.
 
* Add some vegetables to the fire. Just brush fresh vegetables, like zucchini or portobello mushrooms, with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, and put them on the grill. You may also want to put them on skewers which make serving easy.
 
* Opt for fresh fruit-based desserts. Cakes and cookies don’t have to be the main event. Instead, try serving a mix of fresh fruit or an apple cobbler.
 
* Eat a healthy lunch before your nighttime party. This will keep you from mindless overeating when the mingling and fun starts.
 
 * Send “doggie bags” home with friends. Pack small portions of goodies into plastic bags, so you are not left with too many temptations.
 
* Watch the booze. Alcohol calories can add up very quickly, so keep your libations to a minimum. Give guests options to choose from, like diet soda or flavored waters.
 
One thing to keep in mind: You know your guests the best. So, if your friend Suzy just loves your double-double chocolate cake, then make it for her. But keep your slice on the small side. And send Suzy home with the rest. [Weight Watchers]