Healthy Eating at Sports Events
In Gulf Shores & Orange Beach
Fun facts and tips about eating healthy on the go - from parents just like you!
We all know grabbing a kid’s meal at a nearby fast-food joint is an easy solution when you are in the heat of a tournament. And a candy bar here and there for a quick refuel may seem like the easiest route to feeding those hungry and active kids. But are those the healthiest options for them? You want them to be fueled so they can play their best, so it’s important to be mindful of what they consume. Below are some easy healthy-but-delicious options for healthy fare while at your sporting event.
1. Eat a Snack Before You Go
The biggest mistake you could make is going to a sporting event on an empty stomach! It will be really difficult to make good choices when you are starving and surrounded by the tantalizing aromas of junk food. Before you go to your sporting event, have a healthy snack such as a protein shake that will fill you up and provide your body with nutrients and energy for your day. If you eat something before the game, you won’t be as tempted to buy a greasy hot dog or buttery bag of popcorn. You’ll save calories AND money!
2. Two Cooler Method
Yes, we know what you’re thinking: “I already have a suburban-size inventory of things to bring, so please don’t add anything else!” It may seem like a lot to ask, but since you’re most likely going to be packing a cooler for the field anyway, just add a second cooler full of nutritious goodies. Fill it with easy snacks such as oranges, carrot sticks, apples and cheese. Bonus points if you unpackage the items and stick them in reusable containers for quick grabbing. Grab coolers and other supplies for a day on the field at our local Academy Sports + Outdoors!
3. Protein, Protein, Protein
Pack easy-to-tote snacks filled with protein to power your active player. Peanut butter or almond butter mixed with a low-sugar jelly make the perfect sandwiches that are quick to assemble. If you have nut allergy concerns, roll turkey and cheese together, then slice into pieces for bite-size ease. Add pretzels instead of greasy chips, and top it off with cold water or your favorite sports drink. Your player will feel better on and off the field with these healthier alternatives.
4. On-the-Go Dining
No time to prep before your tournament? Need a quick and healthy meal after a long day on the field? Don’t worry. We've got you covered. Many of our sponsor restaurants make it easy with grab-and-go choices and advanced ordering options. Some of them even offer delivery! How awesome is this? Not only do you get amazing food fast, but you have a wonderful variety of food styles to choose from.
With options like these, eating healthy at your next tournament will be a breeze!