For most, feasting and football go hand-in-hand on Super Bowl Sunday. Does it surprise you that the average American eats a day’s worth of calories during the game?
If you want to keep your family from this fate, Deborah Stern, RD, LD, a clinical dietitian at Children’s, says to plan ahead by preparing healthier snacking alternatives.
“Don’t let calories sneak up on you,” she says. “You can enjoy the day without doing too much damage to your waistline.”
Deborah offers her favorite healthy Super Bowl snacks below, as well as a couple other tips to curb the calories.
| Popular Choice | Better Choice |
|---|---|
| Chips and dip | Vegetables and low-fat dip
Cut up some fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, celery, broccoli, cauliflower and cherry tomatoes. You can use light ranch dressing or dip, or you can make your own using a low-fat sour cream or non-fat Greek yogurt and powdered mix. Try Lipton’s Onion Recipe Soup & Dip mix. It’s delicious! |
| Wings | Baked wings
Instead of buying wings that are breaded, fried and then coated with sauce, try baking them at home in the oven and then tossing in some hot sauce. |
| Soda and punch | Calorie-free drinks
Swap out the sugary beverages for some calorie-free options such as Crystal Light or Sugar Free Hawaiian Punch. You can also liven up plain water with a slice of lemon, lime or orange. Water is always the best option. |
| Hamburgers and hot dogs | Grilled meat kebabs
Kebabs are less messy, and no condiments are needed. Simply marinate your choice of vegetables and meat, skewer and then grill. Pick leaner meats, like chicken, and use low-fat marinades or make your own! |
More tips
- Portion control: “Don’t stand at the snack table and eat,” Deborah advises. “Find a plate, use your good judgment and walk away.”
- Stay active: “Grab a pigskin and a friend and play some catch outside during halftime. You’ll feel energized and ready to tackle the rest of the game,” Deborah says.”
Leave us a comment to tell us your favorite healthy Super Bowl snacks.
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