Failing to plan is planning to fail. If you are like most Minnesotans, the “Great Minnesota Get Together” is on your schedule in the next few weeks. Here are some tips to enjoy the State Fair without feeling guilty (or deprived) about your choices!

• Get a good workout in before, followed up with a recovery meal. Heading to the state fair starving is not setting you up to make wise choices.
• Park far enough AWAY from the entrance so you can get in more steps
• Find a protein source before you indulge in the heavier carb choices
  
  • Examples include: Holy Land or Minnekabob Kabobs
  • Giggles Campfire: Salmon on a stick
• Search for lower sugar treats
  • Examples include: Produce exchange for fruit bowls
  • Non-dairy Dole Whip
  • Grab ice cream in a cup versus a cone, and nix the toppings
  • Caramel apple with nuts
• Remember to hydrate! Bring your waterbottle, but if you do buy a drink, go for a Kombucha at the Produce Exchange
• New Foodie Finds:
  • Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl
  • Firecracker shrimp stuffed avocado
  • Moroccan Sausage Bowl
  • Shrimp ceviche
• SHARE!!!
  • 1-2 Sweet Martha’s cookies isn’t going to de-rail you, but the whole pail might
  • A few bites of your favorite treat is oftentimes just enough to satisfy the craving

• Day after damage control:
  
  • Don’t skip breakfast even though you think you should
  • Try: 2-3 eggs + 2 cups veggies (onions, peppers, mushrooms, spinach) + ½ an avocado and sea salt
  • OR 2 scoops protein powder + ½ cup fruit + 2 handfuls greens + 1 scoop almond butter
  • When the craving for sweets strikes, grab an apple, peach or a square of dark chocolate to quell it
  • Add a fermented food to lunch
    
    • Kimchi Chicken Salad Recipe
  • Hydrate well and aim for at least ½ your body weight in ounces of water per day
  • Move—go for a walk mid-day and take opportunities to increase the amount of activity you do OUTSIDE of your planned workout

Have a great time!

~ Registered Dietitians Hanna and Alex