We all know and love the classic game day goodies: foot-long hot dogs, gooey nachos, a big beer in one hand and a chicken wing in the other, but these are all treats that you get at the big game. What about fuel before the game? I’m talking leafy greens, nutrient-rich bowls and healthy dishes that make those stadium burgers sit guilt-free in your stomach. Here are some much-needed healthy recommendations to start your game day off with a grand slam!
Açai is here and ready to play hard! High in antioxidants and packed with protein, açaí bowls have become the new obsession for people who want to keep active this summer. A typical bowl contains açaí berries blended with other fruits and milks, and is then topped with granola, coconut, peanut butter, fresh fruit, anything – the options are endless! My first choice for a tasty bowl is always Açai Express in Duluth. Their mission is to provide superfoods with lots of flavor. They use premium organic berries, which are good for cognition, heart health and aging, and they have plenty of options for different bowls, smoothies and natural juices. They’re fresh, sweet, light and look like dessert (and c’mon, isn’t that half the appeal right there?), but these açaí bowls are no joke when it comes to clean energy that will sustain you throughout even the toughest of games!
If you’re not in the mood for a bowl, visit Northside Nutrition for a meal replacement shake! There are two different categories of shake here: the Specialty shakes, which have protein packed in for those athletes on the go, and Beauty shakes, which contain ingredients like biotin, vitamins and collagen, all to make you more radiant from within. Let’s call that a win, shall we?
What about the real food? I’m talking about the meat, veggies, brown rice and chicken that all the gym bros and health nuts need to keep it all lean and mean. Look no further than gusto!, a homegrown Georgia restaurant, started by former NFL and University of Georgia quarterback, Nate Hybl. This wrap and bowl bar began as a way to provide athletes with hearty, healthy options for fast food on the way to the big game. You can grab one of their pre-made protein bowls packed with rice, greens, meat and deliciously tangy sauces, or simply build your own bowl and make it perfectly personal for your dietary needs.
No matter what dish you choose this game day, just know that you’ll have the fuel to last past halftime and then some! Follow along with me so you too can snack smart and pack in the protein this summer.