Score Big with These Healthier Super Bowl Snacks!

The Super Bowl is just around the corner, and whether you're in it for the game, the commercials, or just the snacks (guilty! 😉), I've got you covered with some seriously delicious AND healthy options!

Football expert? Hardly! My football knowledge starts and ends with knowing which teams are playing-and honestly, that's not even true every year until game day.

But healthy game day snacks? That's my zone!

Let me be your nutrition coach this Super Bowl Sunday and show you how to enjoy the big game without sidelining your health goals. 🏈

I've been chatting with my 1:1 clients about their game day plans, and we've come up with some amazing healthy swaps that'll keep you on track with your goals while still enjoying every minute of the festivities!

Here's your playbook for touchdown-worthy healthy snacks:

1. Lighter Buffalo Chicken Dip: I’m talking about a touchdown of flavor with fewer calories. Get the recipe here.

2. High-Protein Cottage Cheese Queso: Because who said queso can’t be both delicious and packed with protein? Snag the recipe here.

3. Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers: Spice up your game day with these savory stuffed peppers. I thought these would be super fun in the little mini peppers if you are going for the more appetizer vibe. Find the playbook here.

4. Amylu Meatballs: A guaranteed MVP on your snack table – find these delicious meatballs at your local costco or maybe WholeFoods! They are great in the air fryer! I nice swap from the traditional high fat meatballs that are swimming in sugary sauce. You can add a little low sugar teriyaki to these or throw in some marinara sauce or buffalo sauce depending on the flavor you get.

5. Pulled BBQ Chicken: A classic with a healthy twist – get your taste buds dancing with joy! Just make sure to choose a low sugar BBQ sauce.

6. High Protein Ranch Dip with Veggies: Because every good game needs a reliable sidekick. Dip into goodness!

7. White Chicken Chili: Warm up your taste buds with this hearty, protein-packed bowl of goodness. I've heard if you double the chicken this recipe makes a great base for nachos!

8. Lightened-Up BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich with Cilantro Lime Slaw: For a touchdown-worthy sandwich, try this mouthwatering recipe here.

9. Zucchini Pizza Bites: I use part skim mozz and turkey pepperoni but these are a fun pizza treat without breaking the calorie bank!

10. Good 'Ol Lightened Up Chili-This is one of my most popular recipes! It's thick and hearty but has no beans. If you want to add a can of beans to it, it's also awesome-you do you! It's always a crowd favorite and it's a win-win because it's a lot healthier than most traditional chili recipes!

Now, before you start reaching for those snacks like you’re going for the game-winning catch, here are a few game day strategies to avoid going over the top:

• Plate Up, Don’t Graze: Grab a plate to eat your food rather than mindlessly grazing. It helps you keep track of what you’re enjoying and also can slow you down so that you are more mindful when you eat. This seems like such a small thing, but it can really impact your portions!

• Choose Your Snack Vehicle: A lot of the common super bowl snacks are dips. When it comes to dip, what is your vehicle from bowl to mouth? It's important to think ahead on this sort of thing because you can add hundreds and hundreds of calories in chips alone not to mention what you are dipping it IN. Consider having ONE serving of your favorite chip, and then sprinkle in some lighter options for your dip vehicles like raw veggies, air fried homemade options, or even baked vs. fried chips.

• Set a Drink Limit: Hydration is key, but if you are choosing to drink, alcohol calories can add up quickly. Set a drink limit BEFORE the game to keep things in check. Get an accountability buddy to help! There are tons of lighter NA options out there these days-and bonus points because you'll sleep better and wake up ready to tackle the day on Monday!

• Don't Go Hungry: It's a great practice to focus on protein and fiber in the earlier part of the day. Don't under eat and try and "save your calories" for the big game. If you prioritize protein and fiber you'll be satiated and not as likely to over eat. It's also not a bad idea to have a healthy snack (I love a protein shake for this!) before you go or start eating so that you ensure you aren't too hungry.

• Mindful Munching: It's not a race, take your time, savor the moment, the people you're with and every delicious bite. By practicing eating slowly, you're giving your brain the chance to catch up with your stomach, helping you recognize when you're satisfied and preventing that dreaded post-game regret.

Whether you’re a football fanatic or just in it for the yummy snacks, let’s make this Super Bowl Sunday a win-win for your taste buds and your health goals!