Then, compare the saturated fat and sodium levels. Look for 100 percent beef, chicken or turkey as the first ingredient, with water typically coming in second. If you’re having a tough time deciding what to buy, turn over the package and read the label, says Gans.
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While these varieties typically have less calories and saturated fat than the original beef hot dog, sodium levels are just around the same number for any type of dog. You now have the hefty choice between turkey, chicken and even tofu for you veggie-loving folks. Nope, this isn’t your all-American beef wiener anymore. The grocery store refrigerator section is riddled with different types of dogs. “Many brands available today are made with 100 percent beef, with no fillers or nitrates.” “There’s nothing wrong with the occasional hot dog,” says Gans. Moderation is key, obviously, but for those of us not entering a hot dog eating contest this summer, we don’t really have to worry about what’s in our links if we take a look at the label.
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With these tricks, you’ll be one step closer to consuming a healthier dog whether you’re sitting in the bleachers at a baseball game, in between coaster rides at the amusement park or soaking up some rays at the beach.
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One thing’s for sure: You don’t have to skip out on this all-American classic. Keri Gans, RDN, a New York City-based nutritionist and author of The Small Change Diet, shares just how healthy this go-to summer barbecue favorite is and what we can do to make it even better for our bodies. Oh, you think hot dogs aren’t healthy? You don’t want to nosh on one of those scrumptious ballpark franks or state fair sausages or outdoor concert dogs? While the old rumors of where this boiled bologna came from not may be true, what is factual is that the hot dog game has really stepped up since we’ve all been trying to eat a little more mindfully.