With hockey, wrestling, and basketball in full swing, many parents spend hours each week sitting on bleachers watching their kid’s events. I grew up watching my brother’s wrestle and I remember spending entire Saturday’s in the gym watching them compete in tournaments….and this greatly affected our activity and our eating habits. It’s hard to eat healthy when the only option is concessions stands and they aren’t always the best choices. The South Dakota Department of Health has a new initiative this year called the Munch Code and it’s main purpose is to promote healthy concessions at sporting events in South Dakota. It’s somewhat of an irony when we watch our kids compete in sporting events that require proper nutrition, yet we’ll then go to the concessions for a chili dog and nachos! The Munch Code uses a red, yellow, green approach to foods so just like the traffic lights, red means stop (not good for you!), yellow means proceed with caution (consume sparingly), and green means go (good for you!). I encourage you to check out their website for more details on food choices: www.munchcode.org.
We may not have control over the concessions options, but we do have control over our own choices and actions. A hamburger or cheese pizza is going to be healthier than the chili dog or nachos. Avoid drinking regular pop and consuming empty calories in candy, as the excess sugar and calories will add up fast and you won’t necessarily burn it off with your “bleacher butt!” If you can, pack a little lunch such as a sandwich with whole grain bread, turkey or roast beef lunch meat, some raw veggies such as carrots, and baked chips. You can also bring your own snacks such as whole grain crackers (Wheat Thins or Triscuits) and low fat cheese such as string cheese. Fruit is another great option and easy to take with (apples, pears, grapes, etc). I recommend consuming water or other sugar free beverages such as unsweetened tea, diet pop, or Crystal Light type beverages. Another helpful tip is to get up and walk during every break (half time, in between games or matches). There is usually a concourse in the school or gym that you can walk around in. Get up and get moving…and be a good example for your child!
-Kelsey
