The Football Fan’s Guide to Healthy Snacking

Football season is here, and that means friends, game-day excitement, and, of course, plenty of snacks. But if you’re on a weight loss journey, the typical game-day fare—think chips, wings, and buffalo dip—can make it feel impossible to stay on track. The good news? You don’t have to skip the snacks or the fun. Here’s how to enjoy your favorite football treats while staying on track.

Veggie Chips & Protein-Packed Dips

• Instead of: Traditional chips with high-calorie dips
• Try: Veggie slices with a high-protein Greek yogurt dip

Using sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or zucchini instead of chips adds fiber and essential nutrients. Pair with a flavorful Greek yogurt dip for a protein boost that’s both creamy and satisfying.

Recipe: Greek Yogurt Spinach Dip – GLP Elite™

• Ingredients: ⅓ cup nonfat Greek yogurt, ½ cup fresh spinach (chopped), 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and pepper (to taste), and garlic powder (to taste).
• Instructions: Combine the ingredients and mix until smooth. Serve with homemade veggie chips (like cucumber, bell pepper, and zucchini slices) for a healthy crunch.
• Servings: 1 serving of protein and 1 serving of vegetables.

Mini Bell Pepper Nachos

• Instead of: Traditional loaded nachos
• Try: Low-carb mini bell pepper nachos with lean ground turkey

Nachos are a fan favorite, but they can be loaded with extra calories and carbs. For a lighter, low-carb version, use mini bell pepper halves as a base, and top with seasoned ground turkey, a sprinkle of low-fat cheese, and fresh toppings. These mini bell pepper nachos bring all the flavor and satisfaction of traditional nachos with fewer carbs and more nutrients.

Recipe: Mini Bell Pepper Nachos – GLP Elite™

• Ingredients: 4 mini bell peppers (halved), 4 oz. lean ground turkey, ¼ cup low-fat cheese, 1 Tbsp salsa, and green onions (chopped)
• Instructions: Brown ground turkey with your favorite spices. Arrange bell pepper halves on a baking sheet, fill with turkey, sprinkle with cheese, and broil for 5 minutes. Top with salsa and green onions.
• Servings: 5 servings of protein, 1 serving of fat, and 2 servings of vegetables.

Protein-Packed Parmesan Popcorn

• Instead of: Buttered or caramel-coated popcorn
• Try: Air-popped popcorn with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese

Popcorn is a high-fiber snack that can be both filling and low-calorie if prepared right. Air-popping your popcorn and adding a dash of grated Parmesan (an approved cheese) gives it a savory, satisfying taste without unnecessary calories.

Recipe: Parmesan Popcorn – GLP Elite™

• Ingredients: 3 cups air-popped popcorn, ½ oz. grated Parmesan cheese, and salt (to taste).
• Instructions: Pop the popcorn and sprinkle with Parmesan and salt. Shake to coat evenly and enjoy.
• Servings: 1 serving of complex carbs and 1 serving of fat.

Spicy Tuna-Stuffed Avocado Boats

• Instead of: Turkey lettuce wraps
• Try: Creamy avocado boats filled with a spicy tuna mix

Take your snack game up a notch with these avocado boats filled with spicy tuna. Avocado provides healthy fats, while tuna adds protein, making this a rich, satisfying option that’s also loaded with nutrients. Plus, it’s an eye-catching dish perfect for sharing.

Recipe: Spicy Tuna-Stuffed Avocado Boats – GLP Elite™

• Ingredients: 1 avocado (halved), 1 can of tuna (in water, drained), 1 Tbsp nonfat Greek yogurt, a dash of hot sauce, salt, and pepper (to taste).
• Instructions: In a bowl, mix tuna, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Scoop the mixture into avocado halves and serve.
• Servings: 5 servings of protein and 4 servings of fat.

Roasted Veggie & Chicken Skewers with Herb Dip

• Instead of: Plain cheese or cottage cheese snacks
• Try: Flavorful roasted veggie and chicken skewers with a creamy herb dip

These colorful veggie and chicken skewers are packed with protein and perfect for dipping. Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and chicken breast make for a satisfying snack that’s high in nutrients and low in calories. Pair them with a simple herb dip for extra flavor.

Recipe: Roasted Veggie & Chicken Skewers – GLP Elite™

• Ingredients: 4 oz. chicken breast, 1 zucchini, 1 bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, ⅓ cup Greek yogurt, fresh herbs (dill, parsley), salt and pepper (to taste).
• Instructions: Cut chicken and veggies into bite-sized pieces, season, and roast at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. Skewer and serve with Greek yogurt herb dip.
• Servings: 5 servings of protein and 3 servings of vegetables.