Even during a pandemic, one thing remains the same. Sports still bring people together – even while we’re physically apart.

Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or you only tune-in for the commercials and halftime show, chances are you’ll be watching the game this Sunday while enjoying some snacks. However, if you’re New Year’s resolution has you trying to stick to a healthier diet, it can feel like you’re on the losing team. But don’t worry! There are a lot of great ways you can eat healthy and still enjoy the big game.

Get A Healthy Start to Your Day
Have your own healthy pre-game before kickoff! That means making sure to eat a nourishing meal so that you aren’t too hungry when all the food is put out for the coin-toss. Also, try to get in an early workout or walk the morning of so you’re feeling good both physically and mentally for the day.  

Pick Healthier Foods First
Just like the Offensive Coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, you should have a plan. Don’t deprive yourself of some less healthy treats but don’t start with them either. Take a good overview of the food and fill up your plate with as many of the healthy options as you can. Once you’ve finished that, treat yourself to a few of your favourites that may be less healthy.

Out of Sight. Out of Mouth.
The problem with watching a three-hour game with a lot of food in front of you is that you will just keep eating. A handful of chips here and a few chicken wings there can start to add up without you even knowing! Try to keep the snacks in an area where you can’t keep nibbling and you have to get up to get more.

Healthy Super Bowl Recipes - a Nutritious Spin to Some Championship Snacks
One of the best ways to eat healthy during the Super Bowl is to make healthy alternatives to some of your favourites. There are lots of ways you can substitute in healthier ingredients like replacing sour cream with non-fat Greek yogurt or using veggies for dips instead of chips or bread. Here are a few great recipes to try:

Try to Avoid Alcohol
Calories from alcohol can add up fast and before you know it a few drinks can make up the recommended calorie intake of an entire day. Can you believe calories in a glass of wine or beer can range from 150 to 300 per serving? To keep it low-cal, try having some non-alcoholic options like healthy mocktails or a non-alcoholic beer. The best option is to stick to water and stay hydrated throughout the game.

Smaller Portion Sizes
It can be tempting to pile up a big plate with food but try to make your portion sizes smaller. Regardless of size, people tend to pile-on until their plate looks full. Grabbing a smaller plate will prevent you from taking more food than you need. The same goes for pop or alcoholic beverages.

Get Moving at Halftime
Even though the Super Bowl is a physical event... for the players. For the viewers it’s a whole lot of sitting. The game itself is three to four hours, but if you’re in for the long hall you can be watching coverage for the entire day. Get up, stretch and move around during commercials and the halftime show – unless of course that’s what you’re there to watch, then you can make an effort to move around during the game itself. If you don’t want to miss any of the action, get up and go for a walk after the game is finished. You’ll feel better and your body will thank you for it!
 

Whether you’re watching with a group on Zoom or with your “bubble” on the couch, the Super Bowl is a fun way to spend time with friends and family. With some preparation and good play calling, it’s possible to score a touchdown for your health while enjoying some healthy treats during this year’s championship game.