Tackle those Unwanted Pounds

Football season is officially here and that probably means more exposure to some tempting game-time treats that can take a hit on your healthy lifestyle. Just because you want to enjoy the game and take part in all the good-eats that go along with it doesn’t mean it has to influence your weight. Here are some ways to tackle those unwanted pounds.

Pass on the Nachos
There are many football favorites like nachos that can really wreak havoc on your calorie control plan. However, you don’t have to miss out on such traditional fare, as there are now many lower-fat versions available. Choose reduced-fat nacho chips and top with reduced or fat-free versions of toppings such as nacho cheese and sour cream and load on the veggies like tomatoes and onions. You can even add a touch of guacamole (which is loaded with healthy fat). Another favorite, chips and dip, is just as easy to modify. Substitute baked chips for regular potato chips and use low-fat sour cream and onion soup mix or reduced-calorie ranch dressing for the dip. Just remember that every regular-fat chip you munch on adds about 15 calories (and you know that you can’t eat just a few chips!).

Avoid a Beer Belly
Anyone watching a game on television knows by all the beer commercials that football and beer go hand in hand. This tradition is one that can really pack on the pounds. Therefore, if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. If you are going to be drinking a few beers, remember to choose light versions which can save you about 50 calories per beer.  Or, go for a diet soda, low-calorie flavored water, light lemonade or light orange juice. 

Huddle Up
As you know, you will be more successful in your healthy eating and weight loss efforts if you have a support system. Make a pact with your family and friends that when you gather to watch or tailgate for a game, you will all make an effort to provide healthier selections. That way, you will all be more accountable.

Every Point Counts
By planning ahead just a bit, you can “prepare” for those social events that include high-calorie fare. If you’ll be attending a football party, tailgating, or at the game later, save a majority of your allotted calories for that time. Go on a longer walk or jog, or step up your cardio workout another notch to “earn” a few extra calories.

Watch the Scoreboard
Just because it is the weekend and you may have a jam-packed schedule, find time to monitor your calorie intake using the online food diary. You may find the diary is a great way to pass on that extra hot dog if you know that you’ll have to enter it into your daily intake later.

Sack the Fat
The occasional hamburger or hotdog can be a treat every now and then. Look to all the extra toppings to save fat and calories. For example, just one tablespoon of mayonnaise has 99 calories and 11 grams of fat. Instead, choose low-fat mayonnaise which can save you 50 calories and 6 grams of fat. In addition, adding regular cheese to your burger or dog can really add up—just one slice has 110 calories and almost 10 grams of fat. Choosing a reduced fat or fat free cheese can save you anywhere from 30 to 60 calories.

Go for the First Down
Football and healthy eating have something in common- you can’t get a touchdown before you get the first down. In other words, you can’t just expect to make huge changes all at once – it is a series of steps that lead you to ultimate success. It is okay to “splurge” now and then, but it is more about making substitutions and being more accountable that will lead you to achieving a healthy diet and lifestyle that you can attain for life.