My favorite time of year...Fall. I am a sweatshirt and jeans kinda girl and I love the brisk air. Another thing I love about Fall is the sound of ESPN while I'm snoozing on the couch. Yes, it is true. I use Sunday football games for my nap time-that is of course if we are not attending a freezing cold Brown's game. :)
I have lots of suggestions for Tailgating!
Everyone knows a typical tailgate consists of potato chips & dips, burgers, hot dogs, wings, deep fried ANYTHING, and tons of alcohol. I love to hang out with close family & friends on a football game day-however, there are so many unhealthy temptations that it is intriguing to me to take a step back and people watch other tailgates...So put yourself in the situation-I know you can picture it.-
People laughing, playing cornhole, drinking, eating etc..Watch them graze over the food table. They are subconsciously picking food up from the food table. They aren't even aware of how many calories they intake just while holding a conversation. Don't let yourself fall into this category.
Tip #1: Put the food that you are going to eat on your plate. Never graze..we are not cows. (This is also the reason I despise buffets) This will let you visually see all the food you are putting into your body.
Most individuals are geared up for the game and ready to party! Totally fine. I have nothing against alcohol. I do want you to realize that they are liquid calories. Liquid-your body does not use anything from it for nutrients. Nata, zip! Make sure you are aware of how many calories you are consuming. Add them up-HUGE EYE OPENER!
Tip #2: Always keep count of how many drinks you are having. Ask yourself-Did I workout today in order to compensate for these empty calories...which leads me to
Tip #3: If you know you are going to be tailgating-make sure you get up early and burn tons of calories! Make yourself sweat!
Then the debatable topic comes up: "What should I bring to a tailgate?"
Tip #4: Bring what you think is a healthy choice for people that will make them feel good about eating it. Also-something that you like. The dish you bring might be the only healthy item available! The food network does a really good job of giving healthy recipes for tailgating. As well as sparkpeople. Check them out!
foodnetwork.com
sparkpeople.com
I hope this helps you plan for football season!
Have a great weekend!
D
