As summer heats up, more people are firing up the grill or pulling out the picnic basket. Here are some tips on ways to keep rosacea flare-ups under control while still enjoying an outdoor meal.

• Watch out for hot or spicy foods, which may cause flare-ups in many rosacea sufferers. Choose mild or fruit salsas, mild sausages instead of hot and watch the seasoning spices. Opt for seasoning with fresh herbs instead of anything in the pepper family.

   

• Minimize marinades. Marinated meats may trigger rosacea. Consider adding mesquite wood chips to the coals for added flavor instead.

   

• Keep cool by the grill. Minimize exposure to the barbecue's heat. Sip cool drinks or chew ice chips while you cook to keep your face cool.

   

• Beer, wine and hard liquor are common rosacea triggers. Consider non-alcoholic alternatives such as sodas or juice. For a fun, cool drink, mix orange sherbet and lemon-lime soda in a blender.

   

• Plan picnics or barbecues for late afternoons or early evenings. The sun becomes weaker after 4 p.m. and temperatures tend to become cooler by early evening. If you must schedule your activity for earlier in the day, make sure there's a covered patio or deck area to protect from the sun.