Sunday brunch is a weekend ritual for many people. After all, what’s better than a leisurely meal that combines both breakfast and lunch, great company, and a mimosa or Bloody Mary? As great as brunch is, though, it’s easy to eat a day’s worth of calories in one meal and overindulge in foods that you are trying to avoid. Before heading out for your next brunch with friends, keep these tips in mind.

5 Tips for a Healthier Sunday Brunch

1. Eat Before

It may seem counterintuitive to eat before you go to a restaurant; however, if you’re having brunch later in the morning, a light breakfast will curb your appetite and prevent overeating. Have a cup of yogurt with fresh fruit or a small banana with peanut butter to keep your hunger at bay. 

2. Watch Your Alcohol Intake

Some brunch spots entice diners with offers of bottomless mimosas or Bloody Marys, along with an array of other cocktails. While a boozy brunch can be fun, it also means you’re consuming more calories than you may realize. Alcohol can also inhibit your ability to make smarter choices with your food, so limit yourself to one drink and then switch to water or iced tea. 

3. Load Up on Fruits & Veggies

When filling your plate at the Sunday brunch buffet, pile on the salad, veggies, and fruit first. Aim to fill half of your plate with produce. You can even put salad on your plate first so you have less room for more decadent offerings. If you’re ordering from the menu, skip the high-fat, high-carb French toast and pancakes in favor of options that have more protein, healthy fats, and good carbs like veggie omelets. 

4. Follow the “BDD” Rule

The BDD Rule is simple; choose either bread, drinks, or dessert, and only enjoy one during your meal rather than all three. If you really want a mimosa, order one, but skip the bread basket and dessert menu. You’ll keep your carb and sugar intake in check and avoid consuming too many calories. 

5. Survey the Offerings

A Sunday brunch buffet is likely to have a wide array of delicious foods, some of which are better than others when you want to make healthier choices. Before you begin filling your plate with anything that looks good, survey the options and prioritize your meal. When you fill your plate with mostly healthy options, it’s okay to splurge on one or two treats. 

For a delicious brunch with plenty of healthy options, make a reservation for Sunday brunch at Chances "R" Restaurant in York, NE. For more than half a century, this Tri-State institution has offered their signature mouthwatering prime rib, chicken, and pastries as well as other brunch favorites. To book a table, call (402) 362-7755, or view their menu online.