Is sport making you fat?

WHO doesn’t love a few beers and a meat pie while watching the cricket? It’s all fun and games until you start doing it every weekend.

Who doesn’t love a few beers while watching sport?

WHETHER you’re watching a live tennis or cricket match, or attending weekend games nothing screams summer more than a cold drink and an ice cream.

Then a few hours later you’ve wolfed down a meat pie, fries, a bag of chips and a few extra beers. While dietary concerns may not be an issue if you attend an annual sporting match, regular attendance may equal few “healthy” options — therefore it’s a breeding ground for weight issues.

New research exploring the eating habits of Australians attending sporting events and found that 75 per cent of spectators eat food they consider very unhealthy as there are little to no wholesome options available to them.

The report, commissioned by food retailer Sushi Sushi also revealed that three quarters (74 per cent) of Australians believe sporting venues have a responsibility to ensure healthier options are made available, and more than a quarter (27 per cent) of Australians would be inclined to attend more sporting events and spend more money at each event, if healthier and fresher foods were on offer.

There’s nothing more Aussie (or unhealthy) as this common sight.

HOW TO STAY HEALTHY AT THE STADIUM

Although it isn’t easy to make healthy choices at sporting events, it’s very much possible. Here are some tips to minimise the caloric damage without taking away the fun.

Eat at home

Eat a filling and nutritious meal prior to the event. Not only will this save you money, you won’t be as drawn to splurge on the high fat, calorific options at the ground.

Stay hydrated

There’s no denying that water is the best thirst quencher. Many stadiums offer water fountains, generally located at the entrance to all public bathrooms, so bring your own water bottle and refill regularly.

If you choose to have an alcoholic beverage, stick to low-sugar options such as beer or wine instead of pre-mixed concoctions made with soft drink. Remember to alternate with water to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the game.

Pack snacks

Some stadiums might not let you bring in food, but if you can, sneak some fruit or trail mix in to keep snack cravings at bay.

Scope out the possibilities

Don’t succumb to the first hot dog stand you see, walk around the arena to see what options are available and pick the healthiest option, like sandwiches, corn cobs, fruit salad or plain popcorn.

Share

If all else fails, split it. Instead of devouring an entire hamburger or drinking a jumbo size soft drink, order one and share so you can still sample the food for a fraction of the calories.

Get up and move

It’s easy to sit and let four hours slide by without moving, so make sure you get up a take a regular stroll.

Kathleen Alleaume is a nutrition and exercise scientist and author of What’s Eating You? Follow Kathleen on Twitter at @therightbalance