Healthier food choices at the Minnesota State Fair

It’s that time of year in Minnesota when it seems normal to order a bucket of cookies and finish every chocolatey morsel before heading home from a day at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. It’s no wonder there’s also all-you-can-drink milk.

Fair organizers don’t make it easy on us. There are foods around every corner and an annual list of new offerings. Who knew you could deep-fry ranch dressing?

If you’re looking for ways to feel healthier during and after the Minnesota State Fair, read on for some real talk and simple tips from a fellow fair fan.

A healthier fair experience begins before the gates open

The truth: Eating healthy as a habit helps minimize the downside and guilty feelings that can come with splurging at any food-filled event. You can be rule-free for a day and get right back on track.

If you want to create real change, use the days before or after the fair to create meal plans that include a variety of healthy foods, including:

• fruits and vegetables
• whole grains
• lean proteins
• healthy fats
• beans and other legumes
• nuts and seeds

Believe it or not, you can find those foods at the fair. Grilled peaches and salad on a stick are healthy treats. Roasted corn isn’t a bad pick if you don’t go crazy with the butter and salt. The same goes for a giant pickle on a stick. All these options have fiber and can help keep you feeling full longer.

The perennial favorite pork chop on a stick is a good example of a lean protein option. Turkey legs and steak kabobs are also available. For other protein-based meals, look for phrases like “charbroiled,” “grilled” and “roasted” in descriptions for a tip-off that they may be a smarter pick.

New food options on the healthier side

Athena's Whipped Feta - This could serve as an appetizer that gives you protein and calcium. The mix of cheese and fresh herbs may be a great way to start your fair experience.

BABA'S Fawaffle - If you are fan of falafel or waffles, this is perfect for you. You get the protein from the chickpeas, instead of the carbs that come with traditional waffles.

Rooted & Wild (Snack House)'s Deep-Fried Tofuego Bites - This vegan option is served on a bed of pineapple and napa cabbage slaw. It gives you some fiber, instead of just bulk calories.

5 ideas for less regret after the fair

Here are a few more ways you can enjoy the fair with less regret and fewer calories:

1. Eat before you arrive: You may make better choices on a full stomach. Plus, you’ll have some gas in the tank for all the walking you’ll do at the fairgrounds.
2. Start with exercise: Set a timer or keep an eye on a step-counter and eat only after you’ve hit a goal. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, so you’re more likely to keep moving.
3. Scope out all options: Before you buy anything, visit all the booths offering things on your wish list. Skip the one that looks least enticing. Save the calories — and the money. Remember to avoid things that may trigger your allergies.
4. Share the experience: Forget the bucket, you can even share the paper cone of cookies. Sitting down with friends and enjoying a bite of something can be as satisfying as gulping down a whole helping.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water satisfies your thirst and fills you up — so you’ll be more likely to make healthier choices. Be aware of the calories in drinks you buy at the fair. Better yet, bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up at a free water station.

Labor Day resolution

You don’t have to wait until the new year to change how you eat. If you see a doctor, dietitian or nutritionist at the end of summer, you could have a new routine established by the holidays. You might find it easier to maneuver another season (the holidays) that will come with a cookie surplus.