The Super Bowl is almost here, and whether you're in it for the game, the commercials or just the snacks, one thing's for sure—it's a day full of food, fun and lots of sitting. But what if you could enjoy all the game-day festivities without feeling like you need a timeout afterward? With a few simple swaps and some easy ways to stay active, you can keep the party going without sidelining your health goals. Here are some ideas on how to score big on Super Bowl Sunday—without the post-game slump!
Tackle Your Game Day Cravings
Munch on veggies. If there are wings, there will likely be carrots and celery—fill up on those first! That's not to say you can't enjoy wings in moderation. They're a great source of protein; just don't overdo it!
Bring a healthier dish. Speaking of wings, if you're contributing to the party spread, try making cauliflower wings—either a lighter breaded version or simply roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce. Both are delicious and satisfying!
Swap your dip. Instead of traditional ranch for your veggies and wings, mix plain Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning for a protein-packed alternative.
Try a better-for-you nacho swap. Use halved bell peppers instead of tortilla chips and top them with reduced-fat cheese, ground turkey, and light sour cream for a tasty, lower-carb option. Or if you want to keep the chips, just make those other lower-calorie swaps.
If you're a volume eater or bored eater, air-popped popcorn is low-calorie and if you top with nutritional yeast, you get a cheesy flavor along with other health benefits. Or, for a sweet-and-salty mix, toss in some dried cranberries with your popcorn (without the nutritional yeast, though. Or, heck, go crazy and try it with!).
Satisfy your sweet tooth. Fruit skewers drizzled with dark chocolate make for a naturally sweet but indulgent-feeling dessert. Or try making fruit chocolate bark by combining dark chocolate, fruit and nuts and sticking it in the freezer!
Portion your snacks. Instead of grazing from a big bowl, grab yourself a plate and some smaller portions. Once you're done, wait a few minutes before going back for more—you might find you're already satisfied.
Stay hydrated. You can still have some fun, just alternate alcoholic or sugary drinks with water or set a personal limit (like two "fun" drinks before switching to water).
Break Up the Bench Time
Take stand or step breaks during timeouts and commercials. The commercials might end up being the best part of this repeat Super Bowl, so if you don't want to miss them, try walking in place or pacing around the living room while watching.
Make it even more of a game! Challenge your group to a Super Bowl Fitness Challenge:
- Do as many push-ups, squats, etc. as the points scored each time the Chiefs or Eagles put points on the board.
- Pick a common word or phrase (like “touchdown” or “flag on the play” or any mention of Taylor Swift)—whenever it’s said, everyone has to do a quick exercise.
- Get creative and come up with some other ways you and the rest of your viewing party can get moving!
Enjoy the Game, Enjoy the Day
Super Bowl Sunday is all about having fun and enjoying the company of friends and family. If you end up eating more than you planned or moving less than you'd hoped, don't stress—it happens! The key is to enjoy the day without guilt. If you do overindulge, just remember: tomorrow’s a fresh start! You can move forward with extra movement and maybe go lighter on the snacks. It’s all about balance.
So, relax, cheer for your team (or the commercials), and know that with a little planning and mindful choices, you can enjoy the day and still stay on track with your goals.
Lexi Wojcik-Kretchmer is the TOPS Communications Specialist and Writer/Editor for TOPS News. When she’s not working at TOPS, you can probably find her listening to audiobooks on the treadmill, finding good-tasting ways to get her protein in or curled up in the evening with a good book and her cats, Chimi and Little Man, by her side.
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