Super Bowl — How to stay healthy

The Super Bowl is almost here, which means another tailgate party is just around the corner! Whether you will be tailgating in the parking lot of the game, or watching from the comfort of a friend’s home, food will still be a temptation. Although it is perfectly fine to indulge occasionally, we want to help you stick to your goals as best as possible. Here are some tips to stay healthy at your Super Bowl party.

Bring Your Own Dish

This is one of the most important—and easiest— things you can do to ensure you stay on the right track when attending a party that includes food. Create a dish you know will help you stick to your goals. Try baking your own zucchini “fries” or making a chip dip from Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of sour cream to help limit your caloric intake.

Bring a Substitute

If your tailgating party involves a BBQ, plan ahead to bring your own turkey burger, chicken burger, or even a veggie burger — whatever you prefer. With the right seasonings, you can make any of these substitutes taste just as good (if not better!) than the standard burger. Another great idea is to skip the bun, eat just the meat with a little bit of cheese if desired. This will help you save on calories, especially if you feel like indulging later.

Stay Hydrated

Consuming alcohol is common when attending a tailgating party. Alcoholic beverages can be pretty calorie-dense, depending on your choice. If you choose to consume alcohol, try to choose drinks low in sugar and be sure to have a glass of water in between each drink. This will help keep you hydrated and minimize any sign of a hangover.

Dip Wisely

If you choose not to bring your own food to the Super Bowl tailgating event, it is still important to keep your goals in mind before you reach for the chips and dip. Reach for the healthiest option available. Think whole grain crackers, baked pita chips or even fresh vegetables. If they are available, go with hummus, Greek yogurt dip or low-fat ranch. Calories in chips and dips can add up very quickly, so be sure to choose wisely. Again, don’t be afraid to bring your own crackers and hummus.