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The Skinny on Game Day Goodies

veggie tray

It’s football season, and you know what that means: game-watching parties with friends and family, complete with an array of delicious foods. The problem? These foods can pack a punch of sodium, fat, and empty calories, throwing your nutrition game out-of-bounds.

The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice taste for health! The following foods are sure to score points with fellow gameday fans without dropping the ball on nutrients.

 


 

We love our Chick-fil-a in the south! Unfortunately, our bodies do not, with all the extra fat from the frying process. Switch to this healthier version by instead, complete with a recipe that goes the whole nine yards by adding a lightened-up honey mustard sauce.


 

With temperatures dropping, comfort foods like soups and chili start making their way onto the starting lineup. Traditional chili includes fat-packed ground beef, as well as lots of sodium. The alternative? This delicious, nutritionally-dense chicken chili over at . You’ll be getting lots of protein with less sodium, perfect to fuel your gameday festivities. Try topping with avocado, plain Greek yogurt, and a sprinkling of cheese, and your taste buds will have a ball.


 

No good party is complete without delicious dips! Pairing this Greek yogurt ranch dip by cuts the fat, adds protein and doesn’t skimp on flavor. Turn it into a yummy platter by adding fresh vegetables, hummus, and whole-wheat crackers.


 

While we’re talking dips, take a peek at this spin on a traditional refried bean dip. Black beans and low-fat sour cream come together like a dream team, and the perfect combination of spices makes this dip an absolute touchdown. Pair with fresh veggies, baked corn chips, or whole-wheat pita chips, and you’ll definitely score some flavor points with your gameday guests.


 

apple chips

Last, but definitely not least, we come to dessert. This sweet gameday treat by is simple to prepare, making it a perfect addition to whip up during halftime. Rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein, your guests will leave feeling satisfied regardless of the outcome of the game. (PRO TIP: to keep your apples from turning brown, dip in lemon or pineapple juice. This will keep them looking great and will add an extra layer of flavor!)

With football season upon us it’s important to make good decisions for your health and these recipes can help get you there. So start your game plan for game day – without delicious, healthful foods, the party will be incomplete.

·¬ÇÑÉçÇø the Author

Jordan TrahanJordan Trahan is a Dietetic Intern at ·¬ÇÑÉçÇø University, currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nutrition. In her free time, she loves cooking healthy, delicious foods for her family, playing with her sweet puppy, and watching some good ole Texas college football.


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