Stick With Healthier Options at the State Fair

Try these tips and ideas for smarter food options

The Minnesota State Fair is an annual event that marks the end of summer, boasts hundreds of acres of fun exhibitions and often includes over indulging on a wide variety of foods on a stick. If you’d like to make your annual trip to the Fair and stay focused on fitness, try these five tips:

1. Skip the dip
   Resist the urge to soak up the added butter, sauces, dips and glazes. Often the food item is just as good (or better) without the added dressings. Spare the added calories altogether or save them for your favorite indulgence.
2. Suggest a fair share
   Plan to share splurges like this year’s must-sample new foods with a friend (or two). Rather than eating all of everything you want, try eating a smaller portion of the things you want most. Sometimes a bite or two can be satisfying enough.
3. Water while you wait (and walk)
   Yes, the State Fair is about a lot of good food, but don’t wait until it’s too late to hydrate. Drink plenty of water while you wait … between meals, while in line and while walking throughout the fairgrounds.
4. Feed your brain
   Take the emphasis off of food and place it on enjoying the experiences and people (especially family and friends). The State Fair has various arts, science, agriculture, entertainment and plenty of exhibits and experiences to enjoy.
5. Choose healthier helpings
   Look for food vendors that offer things like fresh fruits, frozen yogurt, pickled or roasted veggies on a stick and grilled fish or lean meats. Making healthier food choices might be easier to do when you consider what it takes to walk off the treats you do splurge on. For example: