Live Better America

Pace yourself.

Depending on how long you have before game time, avoid diving into the food and beverages right away. Have a glass of water for starters to bide some time and give yourself the sensation of satiety.

Remember: Tailgaiting is only the beginning and you have the game to get through too.

Swap out the chips and dip.

Instead, serve pita wedges and hummus, veggies and spinach dip, or cheese and wholegrain crackers. You'll get the same satisfying crunch with a fraction of the calories.

Snack smart with fruit, veggies and nuts.

Most of the snacking that goes on at tailgaters is mindless eating because of all the distractions, so make sure the food that is at arm's reach is nutritious. Grapes, orange slices, apple wedges, carrots, celery, broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower, cucumber, and almonds are tasty options.

Think beyond brats and burgers.

If you're going to have a grill going, bring along some lower calorie options for your tailgate feast. Veggie kabobs, turkey burgers, chicken sausage and portabella mushrooms are choices that would taste great under an open sky.

Bring the slow cooker.

Many hearty and healthy meals can be made in a slow cooker and brought out to the game in lieu of a grill. Try pulled pork, chicken chili or beef stew. Skip the bread and buns and you'll have a protein-rich meal that's filling and still fun.

Hold the mayo.

Mayonnaise-based salads are tailgating staples, but they can be heavy and caloric. Rework the classics with recipes like this potato salad and coleslaw.

Go easy on the brewski.

Beer and tailgaters go hand in hand. Beer, however, is high in calories and carbohydrates, and too often, it seems the more you drink, the more you tend to eat. If beer is near and dear to your tailgating tradition, decide on a moderate number of light beers ahead of time and stick to your quota as game day unfolds.

Stay hydrated.

Even if the weather is cool, it is important to stay hydrated. Fill giant containers with water, herbal iced tea, or infused waters for a better alternative to beer and soda. Score earth-friendliness points by bringing along reusable cups.

Pull up a chair.

For many of us, the anticipation for the big game makes it difficult to sit down, but eating while standing often doesn't register as having eaten at all. Make a plate of good-for-you options and take a moment to sit down and enjoy it. Your brain will dial in that you've eaten a full meal and you'll be less likely to continue munching when you aren't really hungry.

Here are more tailgating recipes to try:

Pork and Sweet Potato Kabobs.

Red Pepper Hummus with Pita Chips.

Fresh Tomato Salsa.

Curried Sweet Potato and Lentil Stew.

Do you have any tricks and tips for surviving tailgaters the healthified way? Share them with us here.