Dr. Maxine Hayes
Food is almost as important to the guests as the game when hosting a Super Bowl party. While most people aren’t watching their waistlines on Super Sunday, healthy food options and safe food handling will help keep the calories down and bellies happy.
Nearly half the people in the nation watch the big game, and food is a big part of the fun. In fact, more people gather to eat on Super Bowl Sunday than any other day of the year, except Thanksgiving.
Washington State Health Officer Dr. Maxine Hayes says fun is expected, but it doesn’t mean New Year’s Resolutions have to be forgotten.
AUDIO: Dr. Maxine Hayes on keeping fitness in mind.
People often eat thousands of calories and hundreds of fat grams without thinking twice about it because they’re so focused on the game. Offering a few healthy snack options for guests could help them keep from overdoing it while watching the game action and long-awaited commercials.
AUDIO: Dr. Hayes says there are plenty of healthy eating choices.
Hayes also recommends getting guests off the couch to burn some calories during the tailgate party or half-time show, by throwing the football around or taking a brisk walk around the block. Nothing beats the benefits of exercise for good heart health and if you do it before or during the game, you’ll burn some of the extra calories you and your guests consumed during the party.
For more healthy tips visit the Washington Department of Health website at www.doh.wa.gov.
