Our team at AFC Urgent Care Sevierville wants you to have a wonderful summer, full of fun, family and cookouts! However, why does a grilling session have to mean an unhealthy meal? Turns out, it doesn’t! Check out ways to host a healthier cookout this summer. Grill Up Something Healthy Cookouts are a wonderful way to spend time with friends and family over the summer without spending a lot of money. However, these grilling sessions tend to be full of fatty meats and side items with a lot of carbs. But they don’t have to be! Every cookout doesn’t have to include burgers and hot dogs. Why not switch it up during your next cookout by grilling mushrooms, carrots, peppers and squash instead to help make a more healthy—and colorful—kabob skewer. You can also grill up healthier proteins, such as fish or chicken. Also, don’t be afraid to start your cookout with an appetizer, such as a salad. In fact, did you know that people who ate three cups of low-fat salad before lunch ended up eating 12 percent fewer calories for the meal than those who skipped the salad? It’s true! Just make sure the salad isn’t topped with lots of cheese, croutons and high-fat salad dressings. Finally, when adding side dishes and desserts to the table, aim for healthier options. Skip the rolls as a side and opt for healthier versions of some favorites, such as low-calorie coleslaw, replacing the mayo with Greek yogurt. For dessert, keep the grill heated in order to make a dessert table full of grilled fruits, such as peaches, pineapple or mangoes. You may not think of grilling fruits, but it’ll help release a powerful punch of flavor. Serve the fruits up with low-fat yogurt or ice cream for a delicious, cool treat. Did a recent cookout leave you with a burn? Visit AFC Urgent Care Sevierville for immediate care for your burn! We are open seven days a week to help get you on the path to healing.