If you are looking to grill for the fourth of July, you are not alone. According to the US Census, 79.1 million people grilled last year. Consumers will spend upwards of 6.8 billion dollars on fourth of July food. For people who are trying to lose a few pounds, barbeques can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be. According to OSF Nutritionist, Erin Hanley, who is a lead clinical dietician, all it takes is a little planning. One way to do that is through grilling vegetables.

Another tip for not overdoing it is to have a small snack at home before you go or to bring a healthy dish with you to the cookout.

One easy way to really shed the pounds is to cut down on sugary drinks and that includes diet soda. 

For more on health and dieting contact a local dietitian.