Healthy Superbowl Swaps
10:55 AM
Pizza
Stay true to pizza's roots and think Italian. Italian pies have thin crusts, half the cheese, and extra veggies. Any way you slice it, just keep your order simple -- that means no Meat Lover's.
Chips and Dips
Dips are essential to a winning football menu, but consider this your warning: even the healthiest options can add up to plenty of calories. If you do indulge, go for the guacamole instead of cheese dip. You can make your own by mashing up real avocado, fresh garlic, minced onion, cilantro, and fresh lime juice. All out of guac? Then swap for regular salsa. Ranch dip will penalize you 60 calories with every dip (2 tablespoons), but a scoop of Ortega Thick & Chunky Salsa is a nutritional first down: 2 tablespoons are only 10 calories each.
Sandwiches
When it comes to cold cuts and condiments, get creative. Too many great spreads go overlooked while mayo and oil drive calorie counts through the roof. Try hummus, mustard, vinegar or even a cranberry spread for a delicious, diet-safe change of pace. For an easy calorie reduction and nutrient boost, always go open-faced with wheat bread. As for your meats, ham, turkey, and roast beef all have similar calorie and fat counts. Throw on a strip of bacon or two for a savory splurge. Don’t forget to add as many veggies as you like for extra nutrients.
Veggie Platters
Last year, it was reported that vegetables were the No. 1 food eaten in homes during the previous three Super Bowls. Certainly a welcome sign, but what's more important is how you eat those veggies. They're a great source of nutrients, but don't sabotage that with monstrous portions of dip. Here's how to get the most bang out of your veggies: Instead of buying a traditional bleu cheese dip, make a low-calorie mix with cottage cheese, white horseradish, and seasoning.
Buffalo Wings
Wings can feed an army of people for cheap, which is why they're included at any pregame party. But be careful: A half-dozen wings fried in batter will cost you more than 900 calories; the same amount of roasted wings still adds up to 650. Go with skinless wings, at about 250 calories per serving.
Excerpts taken from “6 Smart Superbowl Swaps” by ABC news. Read more: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/super-bowl-snacks-made-smarter-keeping-calories-check/story?id=12807001#.TyrNxjW5VPg
Best Teen Diets recommends a healthy well balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and low-fat or fat-free dairy. We offer nutrition information for teens, parents and educators that emphasizes the importance of healthy eating for teens.
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