Question of the Week: "Healthy Tailgating!"

The following question was submitted for discussion on this week's blog post, "My husband has diabetes and this time of year we attend a lot of football games.  Before the game we often will meet up with friends for tailgating parties.  Can you give me some healthy ideas of what we can eat during the tailgate?"

Football season is here and so are the tailgating parties!  Here are some suggestions keep your tailgating delicious and yet still healthy.

• Don't go to the game hungry?  Have a healthy snack such as an apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter before you go.  If you go to the game ravenous, you are more likely to binge on unhealthy chips and dips.
• Be prepared - bring an insulated bag or small cooler and bring cut up veggies.  Make your own healthy dip from 0% Greek Yogurt or use salsa.
• Stay hydrated:  Thirst often disguises itself as hunger.  Bring plenty of bottled water.
• Opt for grilled chicken (without the skin).  Choose turkey or buffalo burgers over traditional ground beef.  Grill kebobs - loaded with veggies and chicken or a lean cut of beef.
• Skip the bun:  Save the carbs and calories by wrapping your chicken or burger in lettuce.
• Fill half your plate with grilled veggies (i.e. eggplant, zucchini, squash) marinated in balsamic vinegar or a green salad (lite dressing on the side).

Don't forget to toss the football around in the parking lot before the big game - a great way to burn some extra calories and stay active!


Picture Credit:  AFP  Ted Methias