... And the Extra Point is Good: A guide to heart healthy tailgating | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Tailgating is one of the great pastimes with food, friends, and fun. But it is also a time for foods that aren't so healthy for your heart. Staple tailgate foods include bratwurst, burgers, chili, and queso. These are all loaded with saturated fat, sodium, and are super high in calories- none of which are good for your heart. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, it is a good idea to start thinking like a champ with food while rooting for your favorite team! | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Have a game plan | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Before heading out to the ball game, plan the items you will be making for your tailgate party. After you have planned your meal, go to the grocery store and buy only what you need to make everything. This will prevent you from overindulging when you get to the stadium. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Make a play with the whole team | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Your tailgate feast should include all of the food groups from the Food Guide Pyramid: grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat. From appetizer to dessert, this is actually simple and easy to do. Here are some recipe ideas that good for your heart, but delicious too: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Appetizer: Pico de Gallo | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Main Entree: Grilled Pizza Margherita | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dessert: Mango Sorbet with Grilled Fruit | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Think TOUCHDOWN!! | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Trim the excess fat from your meats Offer fresh fruits and vegetables for appetizers and side dishes Use the grill for your cooking method. This is most heart healthy!! Canned products are high in sodium, go with fresh ingredients. Hold the butter and use margarine for heart health. Ditch the high fat meats. Try lean meats such as chicken or lean beef. Only use olive oil or canola oils to cook with. Watch the portion size of foods you are eating. Nix on the salt, try alternative seasonings such as Mrs Dash, garlic power, and pepper. |
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References and other resources: American Dietetic Association www.eatright.org American Heart Association www.americanheart.org Food Network www.foodnetwork.com |
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Page created by Shannon Hughes, Senior Clinical Dietetics Student, UT Southwestern Shannon.Hughes@UTSouthwestern.edu Page last updated: Feburary 24, 2003 |