You don't expect the two teams competing in the Big Game to show up at the stadium without a plan, do you?  Then how can you expect to show up at a Big Game party and stick to eating healthfully?  Just like the pros, you have to go with a game plan.

 

It may not sound like a whole lot of fun, but when followed a Big Game eating plan allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without sacking your diet.  Here are some of my favorite plays.

 

 

Pre-Game Plan

·         Pre-game workout - Make sure to get your metabolism going with a workout the day of the Big Game. You'll feel so much better when couch-bound later on in the day.

 

·         Fuel up before the Big Game - In theory it makes sense to skip meals all day so you can enjoy whatever you want at the party.  In reality, however, this rarely works.  Arriving at a party hungry often leads to eating more total daily calories than if you had eaten sensibly throughout the day.  Eat small meals throughout the day that are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber and protein, as these nutrients keep you feeling fuller longer.

 

·         Proper hydration equals peak performance - Staving off dehydration is important as thirst is often mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary eating and calorie consumption. 

 

Game Time Plan

·         Scout the roster - Just like each team knows the opposing team's key players, strengths and weaknesses, you should know what's on the menu before diving in. If you know you just can't say no to Chef Joseph's Angus Beef Tostadas, then you can plan to lay off other foods that are not as interesting to you. 

 

·         Huddle your appetizers - A few chips and guacamole here, a handful of nuts there, several chicken wings in between. Calories add up quickly when randomly nibbling appetizers.  To ensure you don't overdo it before meal time, huddle your favorites that can fit onto one plate.

 

·         MVPs (most valuable produce) - fresh fruits and vegetables are low in calories while high in fiber, allowing you to feel fuller on less calories than other foods.  Try to get at least one serving of fruits and veggies into your appetizer and at least two into your main meal. 

 

Post-Game Plan

·         Prevent overtime - Hangover time that is.  If you drink alcohol during the Big Game, make sure to follow up with plenty of water before bedtime.  Waking up with a hangover leads to overeating the next day.

  
 Rachel Begun, MS, RD is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with Celiac Disease.  In addition to writing articles for Soup's On, she is the face behind Kettle Cuisine's blog, Kettle's Edibles. You can also follow Rachel on her own blog, The Gluten-free RD (glutenfreerd.wordpress.com), and on Twitter @RachelBegunRD.