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Super Bowl bonanza

by Matthew Bin Han Ong, Comm '12

Fans do not live on football alone, but on every chip, dip and beer can that comes with a Super Bowl party. At least that's what Marquette Magazine is gathering less than a week from one of Wisconsin's biggest events this year.

Marquette community members share some of their favorite Super Bowl munchies — and a Marquette nutritionist and fellow Packers fan gives her tips on how to make party-going a little healthier:

"Doritos, always. You always have the carrots and the dressing, too." — freshman Adrian Moreno

"Basically just finger food, a lot of chips and dip and pizza. … Those little hot dogs are like at every Super Bowl party." — junior Hannah Bessenecker

"Chips and dip and salsa … it's more like snacks. We would order pizza and maybe have a few beers." — senior John Svitak

"We usually have chicken wings, tacos and pizza. It's like a tradition." — freshman Olga Kontarovich

"I usually make my homemade chili. I try to make it healthy, but I put [in] sour cream and shredded cheese and hot sauce. And beer — everyone brings their own six-pack. Oh, all that chicken wings and pizza, too." — Library Media and Reserves Services Adviser Monica Drake

The Super Bowl can actually be good for the heart, according to die-hard Packers fan, Marquette professor and nutritionist Barb Troy, who works with student athletes on food selection and teaches courses in normal and therapeutic nutrition.

"However, there certainly can be negative lifestyle habits — consuming too much alcohol, eating too many calories — that can put a real damper or ruin the fun for all," Troy says.

So how does one make the best out of the biggest party of the year?

"The key to enjoyment is BALANCE," Troy says. "Spread out/limit those alcoholic beverages throughout the day, and drink diet soft drinks or water as well."

As for food, Troy says moderate portions and a combination of nutritious food selections would be wise. She also suggests moving away from the buffet table or kitchen.

 "The Super Bowl is one magical day per year," Troy says. "The camaraderie experienced in groups during such a celebratory day can actually be emotionally healthy … good for the heart!"