How to survive the super bowl binge
Super Bowl madness is another in a long list of winter time diet breakers. Even with the best of intentions, it's nearly impossible to sit amongst wings, chips, dips, sweets and drinks and completely deny yourself. Besides it's just one day, right? Exactly! So give yourself a little leeway and keep a few of these things in mind to help you indulge in the moment and still get right back on track tomorrow.
First you need to be clear with yourself that it's just one day. Research has proven over and over that we can reset and restart as soon as we put our minds to it. So get your plan together now because Monday is a whole new day, the beginning of the week and the first day to the rest of your life. Inspired yet? Get pumped up about a guilt free Super Bowl followed by an aggressive resurrection of your healthy eating patterns and fitness routine.
Second all good things must come in moderation. Where is the enjoyment if you eat till you're literally sick? Giving in to that thick slice of steamy pizza and washing it down with a cold beer while screaming for your team's last touchdown should be blissful not nauseating. To keep it all in check, start the day with a quick workout, 20 minutes of anything! Alternate every sugary or alcoholic beverage with a glass of water. Add a squeeze of lime for flavor and a palate cleanse. Find something to do during half time, whether it's cleaning up, refills or a brisk walk. Avoiding 30 minutes of mindless carb loading to pop music can keep you going for the second half!
The third and most helpful Super Bowl survival tip is to take control over the unwanted calories. There are so many great party foods, but some are just not worth it. If you love the onion dip but don't care about the crunch underneath, bring your own whole grain or seed crackers or crisps. If pizza is your thing, load it with veggies. The best way to get what you want is to host the event yourself and make all your favorite indulgences with substitutions you deem delicious, like swapping yogurt for mayonnaise. If you've already got an invite elsewhere, bring a healthy dish so you can mix up the high calorie foods with the more balanced options.
Here are some healthy and mouthwatering Super Bowl snack ideas.
- Grilled veggie skewers are fun and practical. You do the chopping and everyone can make their favorite combo.
- Guacamole is a big bowl of veggie goodness and goes great with whole grain crisps!
- Layered bean dips are an excellent source of fiber and an addictive snack with a multitude of recipe options.
- Baked sweet potato chips are a party pleaser with endless seasoning options for sweet to spicy.
- Or switch up the classic veggie platter with a plate of breaded veggies, baked or pan fried. Zucchini, cauliflower, eggplant, okra, green beans, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes and so many more.
No matter what options you put in effect just remember to have fun and get back to your healthy habits on Monday.
Read more about Vegan Meals All the Rage for Titans, with 15 players converted - Tennessee Titans - espn.