The Super Bowl is one of the biggest food events of the year, right up there with Thanksgiving. If you're on a clean eating plan, the typical game day spread can be a nutritional landmine. But that doesn’t mean you have to sit on the sidelines while everyone else indulges!
As a Functional Nutritionist, I believe in making health-conscious choices without sacrificing enjoyment. Here’s your playbook w/ plenty of Super Bowl friendly recipes to help keep your game day clean, paleo-friendly, and delicious!
First Quarter: Set Yourself Up for Success
One of the biggest pitfalls of Super Bowl snacking is showing up hungry and unprepared. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game:
Support Digestion from the Start – Take digestive bitters or enzymes before eating to help break down food efficiently. Skip the antacids (they actually blocks digestion and make things worse in the long run) and instead use Enzymedica Heartburn Ease if needed. A strong glass of lemon water can also ease any discomfort. After eating, you can take bitters again or Gaia Gas & Bloating if you're gut is feeling upset.
Eat Mindfully & Listen to Your Body – Slow down and chew your food well. Avoid overeating by tuning into your hunger cues. Take breaks between bites to fully enjoy your meal and prevent bloating. Eating mindfully will go a long way for helping you not over-eat and avoiding acid reflux, bloating, gas, etc...
Eat a High-Protein, Nutrient-Dense Meal Beforehand – If you show up to a Super Bowl party ravenous, you’re more likely to dive headfirst into a bowl of chips. Eat a meal rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber before the game so you feel satisfied and less tempted by processed snacks.
Bring Your Own Game Day Spread – If you're not hosting, offer to bring a dish (or two!) that aligns with your clean eating goals. That way, you know there will be at least one thing you can enjoy without hesitation. Check out the recipes below for ideas.
Second Quarter: Paleo-Friendly Super Bowl Recipes for Snacks & Appetizers
Skip the chips and queso loaded with artificial ingredients and opt for these real-food alternatives:
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites – Swap out deep-fried wings for crispy roasted cauliflower tossed in clean buffalo sauce. Try using Noble Made Buffalo Sauce for a clean, flavorful option. Check out this recipe here!
Pasture-Raised Chicken Wings – If wings are a must (and let’s be honest, they usually are), choose organic, pasture-raised wings and bake them instead of frying. Use a clean, sugar-free buffalo or Mango Jalapeño BBQ sauce from Primal Kitchen.
Guacamole & Veggies – Skip the chips and serve fresh guacamole with cucumber slices, bell peppers, and carrot sticks for crunch. Use Sieté chips if you want a clean, grain-free option.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates or Jalapeño Poppers – Stuff dates with goat cheese or fill jalapeños with grass-fed cream cheese (Organic Valley & Good Culture are good options), then wrap them in Applegate sugar-free bacon for a perfect sweet-savory combo. Try this recipe here!
Paleo Sliders – Use lettuce wraps or sweet potato slices as buns and load up with grass-fed beef or turkey patties, avocado, bacon and all the fixins! Here's a mouthwatering recipe.
Halftime: Dips & Sides That Don’t Derail You
Dips are a game-day staple, but store-bought versions are often packed with inflammatory oils and preservatives. Instead, try:
Dairy-Free Spinach & Artichoke Dip – Made with coconut cream or yogurt instead of dairy or canola oil mayo. I love using CocoJune yogurt. >> Check out this recipe here!
Homemade Salsa & Pico de Gallo – Fresh, simple, and free of added sugars. Here's a 3-minute salsa recipe!
Cashew Queso – A creamy, dairy-free alternative to nacho cheese. Try Primal Kitchen's or make your own.
Third Quarter: Drinks Without the Downfall
Alcohol and Super Bowl parties go hand-in-hand, but if you're avoiding beer and sugary cocktails (which I highly recommend you do) try these clean alternatives:
Mocktails – Mix sparkling water with fresh lime, muddled berries & mint, or a splash of coconut water for a refreshing, booze-free drink.
Clean Cocktails – If you choose to drink, opt for tequila or vodka with fresh lime and soda water instead of sugary mixers. Clear spirits are easier for your liver to metabolize.
Hydration is Key – Sip on electrolyte-infused water to stay hydrated and avoid the next-day crash.
I like these electrolyte packets:
Fourth Quarter: Clean Desserts That Score Big
Finish strong with something sweet that won’t leave you with a sugar crash:
Dark Chocolate Coconut Butter Cups – I"m obsessed with these from Evolved.
Simple Mills Brownies - add a swirl of almond butter or fresh raspberries. Be sure to sprinkle with Maldon Salt.
Overtime: Mindset Matters
If you do indulge in a few treats outside of your usual clean-eating routine, don’t stress! The key is to enjoy the moment, make the best choices available, and get right back on track the next day. One meal won’t make or break your health—consistency is what matters most.
By planning ahead and bringing your own delicious, clean options, you can fully enjoy the Super Bowl without the post-game regret. Whether your team wins or loses, your body will thank you for sticking to a game plan that fuels you well.
Game on!
Comment below with your favorite clean eating game day strategies and recipes! ⬇
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