Healthy eating for the big game

Everyone wants to enjoy spending time with friends while watching the "big game." It may take a little effort to keep healthy eating on track, but it is well worth it. You will feel better and have extra energy by making healthier choices and being mindful of portions.

• Don't save up for the splurge. While it may seem tempting to "bank" calories all day to save room for the pre-game spread, this strategy almost always will backfire. Ultimately you will end up overly hungry, eating much too quickly, and feeling stuffed as a result. Start your day as you normally would, eating balanced meals on your regular schedule.
• Bring a healthy dish to pass. Bring a fresh fruit tray with a yogurt dip or veggie tray with a healthy dip like salsa, guacamole, or hummus.
• Put it on a plate. Instead of grazing over all of the choices available, put your food on a plate and make it a meal. Choose fresh fruit alongside healthy protein choices, like cheese and crackers, kabobs, hummus, or three-bean salad.
• Enjoy in moderation. Survey the options and then choose your favorites and a few new things you’d like to try. Be aware of your fullness level and make an effort to stop before you become overly full; you will enjoy the rest of your event if you’re comfortable.
• Drink in moderation. Moderate alcohol intake for men is 2 drinks per day and 1 drink per day, for women. Try having a glass or bottle of water in-between each alcoholic drink to pace your alcohol intake.

Find healthy recipes