What to look forward to in June - Happy Father’s Day
Father’s Day often means firing up the BBQ. The good news? Grilling can actually be one of the healthier ways to cook when done thoughtfully
Using the BBQ allows excess fat to drip away naturally, often reducing the need for added oils while still delivering incredible flavour. Pairing quality proteins with colourful grilled vegetables is a simple way to create a balanced, nutrient-dense summer meal the whole family can enjoy.
When choosing meats, quality matters. Leaner, higher-protein options like bison, venison, chicken breast, or grass-fed and finished beef tend to provide more protein with a healthier fatty acid profile compared to heavily processed meats or higher-fat conventional ground beef. Grass-fed and finished beef is also naturally richer in nutrients like iron, zinc, and omega-3 fats and has a high protein content. Look for a butcher who sources their beef from New Zealand (Westlynn Meats, Meridian Market)
A few easy BBQ upgrades:
• Choose lean cuts or extra lean ground meats when possible
• Opt for grass-fed and grass-finished beef over conventional options
• Add grilled vegetable sides like zucchini, peppers, asparagus, mushrooms, or corn
• Use herbs, spices, citrus, and marinades for flavour instead of heavy sugary sauces
• Avoid charring meats excessively, as overburning can create unwanted carcinogenic compounds.
This Father’s Day, celebrate with meals that are both satisfying and supportive of long-term health, because nourishing food can still taste amazing straight off the grill.
Meet our Nutritionist
Lauren Webber, CNP is the Holistic Nutritionist at Elevate Training, Health and Wellness. After transforming her own health through nutrition education starting at age 15, she’s passionate about helping others build balanced, sustainable habits. Lauren takes a holistic approach—looking beyond food to support overall wellness and lifestyle.
For more information on meal planning and nutritional guidance, please contact us.