Super Bowl Sunday is synonymous with thrilling football action, electrifying halftime shows, and, of course, delicious snacks. It’s a day when friends and family gather to cheer on their favorite teams while indulging in a smorgasbord of delicious treats. However, for those striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle, the abundance of tempting snacks can present a challenge. According to a study by the Calorie Control Council, the average American can consume around 2,400 calories during the game, with a significant portion coming from high-fat and high-sugar snacks. In this blog post, join Maryland Dietitian, Kay Loughrey, explore strategies to help you enjoy Super Bowl Sunday without derailing your wellness goals.
Plan Ahead:
Planning ahead is crucial to avoid unhealthy snacking on Super Bowl Sunday. The National Chicken Council estimates that Americans devour over 1.4 billion chicken wings on this day, making them a staple of game day indulgence. Consider making healthier options like homemade turkey chili or veggie sticks with hummus. By preparing nutritious options in advance, you can satisfy cravings without sacrificing your health.
Practice Portion Control:
Mindful eating is essential during Super Bowl festivities. Using smaller plates and bowls to limit portions can lead to the consumption of fewer calories because it allows for you to regulate your portions more effectively. By practicing portion control, you can indulge in your favorite snacks without overdoing it. Remember, take your time and enjoy each bite!
Choose Wisely:
Not all Super Bowl snacks are created equal. Only choose a few snacks that look appealing, you don’t need to try everything! Be cautious of sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages, which can add unnecessary calories.
Stay Hydrated:
Don’t forget to stay hydrated amidst the excitement. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can curb cravings and prevent overindulgence in alcohol. Hydration also helps you make healthier choices overall.
Focus on the Experience:
Remember, Super Bowl Sunday is about more than just food. Enjoy the game, halftime show, and time spent with loved ones. Shift your focus away from snacks and immerse yourself in the overall experience of the day. If you need more tips and ideas on what to prep for the big day check out our past blog post 5 Tips to Keep Healthy Eating on Track During Summer Travels
With mindful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy Super Bowl Sunday without compromising your health goals. Opt for nutritious snacks, practice portion control, stay hydrated, and focus on the joy of the day. So, gather your friends and family, prepare some healthy snacks, and get ready to cheer on your favorite team!
References:
Calorie Control Council. (n.d.). Super Bowl Sunday. Retrieved from https://caloriecontrol.org/super-bowl-sunday/
National Chicken Council. (2023). Chicken Wings Top 1.4 Billion for Super Bowl. Retrieved from https://www.nationalchickencouncil.org/chicken-wing-report/
Wansink, B., & van Ittersum, K. (2013). Bottomless Bowls: Why Visual Cues of Portion Size May Influence Intake. Journal of the Association for Consumer Research, 1(1), 134–143. https://doi.org/10.1086/375987
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Kay Loughrey, MPH, RDN, LDN
Transformational Speaker, Breakthrough Coach, Nutritionist-Dietitian
Emma O’Connor, Nutrition Intern
Student, Master’s degree program in Nutrition
North Carolina Central University
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