Super Bowl Snack Makeover

by: Meri Raffetto RD, LDN

So you hit the ground running working on your weight loss goals in January only to come to a screeching halt on Super Bowl Sunday. It's not that Super Bowl foods are so terrible by themselves, but because the Super Bowl has turned into a day-long event where people tend to eat non-stop for hours. This makes it difficult for those working on weight loss or for those who may be trying to manage their cholesterol or blood pressure. The chances are high that you yourself or one of your guests will have one of these issues with 66% of Americans being overweight, 1 in 3 with high blood pressure, and nearly 100 million with high cholesterol. In my immediate circle alone there are two working on weight loss, two with high cholesterol and 1 with high blood pressure and all of these people are in their 30's.

Don't worry, we won't take the Super Bowl snacks away but maybe offering a few healthier choices will help people who are working on specific health goals. Here are a few tips for making over your Super Bowl snacks.

1). Baked not Fried- this can go for anything from your chicken wings to chips. Baked products will have much less fat and calories than fried.

2). Offer some substantial snacks- you can eat a bag of chips and not feel like you are eating much but the calories and fat will add up quickly! Offering some heartier appetizers that have some protein and fiber such as bean dips with baked pita corners, or grilled chicken skewers will help you feel more full.

3). Don't drink your calories- keep in mind that beer and soda can add up quickly. Two 12-ounce beers (or soda) will add up to 300 calories. Try to pace yourself with some water between beer and soda rounds.

4). Don't eat out of the chip bowl- it is impossible to know how much you are consuming when you eat out of a bag or chip bowl. Your best bet is to get a plate and take a handful of chips so you have a better idea of how much you are eating.

5). As always, enjoy the foods you are eating. You can indulge a little and manage your health and weight- it is all about balance.

Super Bowl Makeover:

Super Bowl Snack Makeover:

You don't have to give up your favorite snacks. This comes down to awareness and choice so you can find a balance between fun foods and weight management.

(c) 2007, Real Living Nutrition Services, LLC

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