Friday, February 3, 2012

Superbowl Sense

I know very little about the Superbowl; to be frank, I have probably only seen it a few times in my life. Over the years however, I have come to be pretty familiar with the Superbowl in regards to the food associated with it- but sadly, my knowledge of football has not improved. The Superbowl, as with many other social activities, has developed its own food repertoire- mostly centered on food that is convenient to eat while watching a television. As a nutritionist, I feel confident going on record to say that eating while watching TV is never a good idea, but on certain occasions such as this, it is going to be done. The food is typically finger food, or food that you don’t have to necessarily look at, since, again you will be focused on TV or socializing. Alcohol also plays a leading role in this festivity- and the food that is eaten pairs accordingly. So, how does one who typically strives to eat balanced and healthy make it comfortably through this event? Here are some tips:

Go in with a game plan in regards to alcohol and food intake. Remember, that game plans often have to be re-evaluated mid game- so don’t feel bad if it doesn’t go exactly as planned.

CHIPS: buy baked chips and avoid the fried ones. When serving yourself, put them in a bowl and try not to eat directly out of the bag.

Do your best to ensure there is a veggie plate. If you are making it, then make or buy a low-fat dip that uses yogurt instead of sour cream.

What really adds on the calories, fat, and sodium is often the cheese. If there are nachos, go for the guacamole and salsa instead of the cheese.

Try to buy lean meat and/or grass fed beef if burgers are being served. Buy whole wheat buns instead of white buns.

Chicken wings appear to be a MUST during the Superbowl (I know, I have watched my husband eat about 30 at one game). Steer clear of the sauce served with it, and be mindful of the amount consumed.


Drink WATER. Even if you feel silly with a beer in front of you and a glass of water. Staying properly hydrated is super important, especially when you are drinking and eating high fat and sodium heavy foods.

Chili is actually a great main dish to serve, and it takes about 15 minutes to make. Use either lean meat or turkey. Serve with avocado.

Remember that anything you make at home will be healthier than what you buy at the store.
Most importantly, enjoy what you are eating. Stand by your decisions- if you really want to eat a hot dog, eat one, know that it is not the best choice, and move on. So many times the stress of celebratory occasions that involve food cause us to overeat or feel guilty- the Superbowl comes once a year, and its isn’t every year that the Pats are involved. The food that is often served at this event may not be the healthiest, but there are certainly ways to stay mindful, and make the better choice, even if it isn’t the best. I have included a great recipe of a bean/tomato dish that you can serve on good whole wheat crostini or mix with some avocado and olives and eat as a stew.

2 Tbsp Olive Oil
5 Cloves of garlic sliced
Sage
30 oz of Cannellini Beans (Canned)
14 oz Can of Diced Tomatoes

1) Sautee Garlic and Sage over low-med heat until Garlic is Golden
2) Add Beans and Season w/ Black pepper or a pinch of cayenne
3) Stir Mix together and add tomatoes, simmer for 15 minutes

Recipe provided by Tony Carbone, local Boston chef
http://www.urbanepicurean.net/