Diet Tip: Surviving the Ballpark

If you’ve been to a baseball game lately, you know that an afternoon at the ballpark can mean trouble for your diet.

ballpark.jpgHowever, if you plan to head to a game or two this season, you don’t have to accept defeat or completely deprive yourself, says Charles Stuart Platkin, the nutrition and public health expert behind DietDetective.com. Just try focusing on making a few substitutions and most most importantly limiting your portion sizes and the extras. Instead of the regular foot-long hot dog, go for the two-ounce kosher hot dog or even the vegan dogs. As for condiments, make sure to use low-calorie yellow mustard in lieu of ketchup.

Sauerkraut and relish? It’s not as bad as you think. Researchers have located anti-cancer compounds in sauerkraut. A class of compounds called isothiocyanates that were previously identified in other studies as potential cancer-fighting agents have been found within the product. And it is also a known fact that onions help battle osteoporosis. But, of course moderation is key.

Season ticket-holders and avid sports fans, on the other hand, need to do a little more training to avoid putting on weight. Make a list of the five or so healthiest items you like at your stadium of choice; call the food-service director for preparation information if you’re confused. These might include a baked potato, vegetarian chili or wrap sandwiches. Then, always order something from your pre-established menu.

If that doesn’t sound appealing, at least try to eat a filling, healthy meal before you head to the game so you won’t have as much room for error. Or, Platkin says, you can always try to sneak in air-popped popcorn or an apple for a crunchy but still good-for-you snack.

Yes, the first couple of games when you’re biting into a pear instead of a soft pretzel will be difficult. But can you recondition yourself.

“No one else is going to be your sobering ego,” Platkin says. “You have to make a choice if you’re going to control your weight.”

Source: Allison Van Dusen, Forbes.com

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