Dietitian Reveals the Best and Worst Super Bowl Snacks
The Super Bowl: A Day of Gluttony and Guilt
According to a new study by Levity, the average Super Bowl meal clocks in at a staggering 3,506 calories — more than an entire day’s worth of food!
Combat the Bloat and the Bad Feelings
“Whenever you go to a party where there is a spread or a buffet, I always recommend walking the line and previewing the options before you get a plate because chances are once things get on your plate, you’re going to eat them,” said Courtney Smith, a registered dietitian, diabetes specialist, and founder of the Keys to Nutrition.
Research shows that eating while watching television commonly leads to overconsumption.
Unhealthy Options
Unsurprisingly, jalapeño poppers, often breaded, sometimes wrapped in bacon, and ubiquitously stuffed with cream cheese, did not make Smith’s cut for healthy choices.
However, that doesn’t mean they’re totally off the table for football fans. “The portion size matters with everything. If you want to have a jalapeño popper, I would stick to 1 or 2. I don’t want people to feel super restricted because I don’t think most of us have jalapeño poppers that often,” she said.
Surprisingly Healthy Options
As many of us will watch the game in cooler weather, chili will be a game-day party staple, and Smith says a heaping bowl can be a healthy choice.
“For most people the Super Bowl is happening over dinner time, so we want to think of it as a meal; are we getting our protein? Are we getting fruits and vegetables? Are we getting fiber? That’s going to be more filling and lead to less consumption,” she said.
Chili is packed with satiating protein and fiber, keeping fans fuller longer, reducing the likelihood of indulging in less fortifying snacks. Just go easy on high-fat toppings like cheese and sour cream.
Another surprisingly and relatively healthy game day snack, according to Smith? Potato skins.
“I feel like potatoes have been villainized for so long, mainly because the most popular way for potatoes is to deep fry them. But, if you take a baked potato and scoop it out, it is not inherently bad. The skin, which is full of fiber, is arguably the most nutritious part of the potato,” she said.
A Healthy Twist
Smith recommends bringing a healthy, protein-rich homemade ranch dip.
“I typically don’t recommend distracted eating because it’s not mindful. You’re watching the football game and sitting there for hours; you’ll most likely clean your plate,” she added.
However, as with the chili, Smith suggests going easy on the cheese. “Cheese is a condiment; we want to use it as a light topping, not as the main ingredient,” she noted.
A Final Word
To ensure that at least one nutritious item lands on your plate at the party, Smith recommends bringing a fruit and veggie plate with guacamole, hummus, and healthy, homemade ranch dip.
“One of my favorite hacks is to use a Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning pack, add nonfat Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and make it into a high-protein ranch dressing. You can dip your veggies or even your wings in it,” she said.
Smith supports fans enjoying all the snacks they love on game day. “My caveat is that the Super Bowl is one day a year, and if you choose to indulge in your favorite guilty pleasure, that’s still moderation,” she said.
FAQs
* What are the best Super Bowl snacks?
+ According to Courtney Smith, a healthy, protein-rich homemade ranch dip and potato skins are great options.
* What are the worst Super Bowl snacks?
+ Jalapeño poppers, often breaded, sometimes wrapped in bacon, and ubiquitously stuffed with cream cheese, are not the healthiest option.
* How can I make healthier choices during the Super Bowl?
+ Preview the options before loading up, go easy on high-fat toppings, and try to eat mindfully.
Conclusion
By following these tips and recommendations from a registered dietitian, you can make healthier choices during the Super Bowl and still enjoy the experience. Remember, moderation is key, and it’s okay to indulge in your favorite guilty pleasures on this special day.
