Win Big by Throwing a Health-Conscious Super Bowl Gathering
Key Takeaways:
- Consuming a light wholesome meal beforehand can control snacking urges during Super Bowl parties.
- Working out before going to the party can help reduce overall caloric intake and limit alcohol consumption.
- As a host, support healthier choices by providing snack alternatives such as fruits, pretzels, microwaved popcorn, and a variety of vegetables.
- Choose low-fat versions of dips, and opt for vegetable toppings while ordering pizza or vegetarian chili to balance the diet.
- Avoid bingeing on leftovers after parties as it could encourage unhealthy habits and hinder the continuation of a diet plan.
The anticipation of a good football game brings with excitement. But it should also remind us of the challenge to resist the urge to binge on snacks and beverages while engrossed in the game, suggests one expert.
Fan Strategy: Healthy Meal Prep and Exercise
Football enthusiasts looking forward to a party could actually control their snacking by consuming a light wholesome meal beforehand. This preemptive measure can significantly reduce their craving for unhealthy snacks, opines Gina Neill, a dietitian associated with a leading health system.
Neill further recommends finding time for a workout session before leaving for a Super Bowl party. This helps to reduce overall caloric intake as you can either limit your alcohol consumption or avoid it completely to dodge those extra calories.
Host Defence: Smart Snack Alternatives
As a host, you too can contribute to support your friends’ intent to stick to a healthier diet. Neill provides some useful pointers for those organizing a Super Bowl bash:
- Ditch the cheese in favor of fruit selections, and swap the usual potato chips with pretzels or microwaved popcorn.
- Set out a variety of vegetables like celery, cucumbers, tomatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli for your guests to nibble on.
- Go for salsa or opt for low-fat versions of sour cream or cheese in dips, replacing the high-fat components.
- While ordering pizza, skip the additional meat or cheese, choosing vegetable toppings instead.
- Consider vegetarian chilli, or prepare yours using lean cuts of beef or turkey.
“Devoting one day, like Super Bowl Sunday, to pamper yourself a little is fine,” advises Neill. “However, refrain from bingeing on any leftovers, as this could encourage unhealthy habits. Make wise choices and you can still follow your diet.”
Further Reading
For more details on healthy eating, go straight to the website of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
