Now that we’re aware of the dangers of trans fats and processed foods, many people are seeking alternatives to traditional theater snacks. Movie night snacks are usually microwave popcorn, candy, or nachos, but these foods are high in calories and unhealthy additives. While these snacks are delicious and make a home night special, it’s important to take care of your health and practice choosing healthier snacks. You can enjoy a snack that has all the flavor of movie theater snacks but with none of the health risks. We will explore some of the best healthy alternatives to traditional home theater snacks, so you can indulge in your favorite shows while staying true to your healthy lifestyle.
Popcorn is a favorite snack to munch on during a movie, but the processed butter and salt make it an unhealthy choice. You can still eat popcorn, but make it healthier than microwave popcorn drenched in butter. Try Skinny Popcorn, which uses a light coating of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. Another option is Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn, which adds a sweet flavor to popcorn using a combination of cinnamon and sugar. Make sure you don’t use too much sugar. This snack will be healthier when you make it yourself. If you don’t feel like sweet flavors, there’s Parmesan Garlic Popcorn, which combines garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy and savory taste. Trail Mix Popcorn is a protein and fiber-packed snack that combines popcorn with almonds, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate chips. Finally, Rosemary Olive Oil Popcorn uses fresh rosemary, olive oil, and salt to create flavorful popcorn that is both savory and aromatic.
You could eat favorite fruits and veggies on movie night! Grapes make a refreshing low-calorie snack. They’re delicious dipped in yogurt. Carrots with hummus provide vitamin A, protein, and fiber. Sliced apples paired with peanut butter offer fiber and healthy fats. Edamame are tasty bean-like snacks that provide protein and fiber. Lastly, try cherry tomatoes for a sweet and tangy snack that’s high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
If you’re looking for a healthy and satisfying snack, nuts and seeds are a great option. Almonds are rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making them filling and good for you. Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium and zinc, boosting immune function, while cashews provide iron and zinc. Sunflower seeds are packed with vitamin E, which supports healthy skin and immune systems. Pistachios are lower in calories than other nuts, but still a good source of protein and fiber.
To make your movie healthier, skip the soda. Instead of sugary drinks, make your own iced tea with no sugar or low sugar. Fresh juice is healthy, as long as it’s 100% juice and not a sports drink. With these choices, you can remain hydrated and enjoy the movie without the added calories and sugar.
Instead of eating candy, have fun making your own trail mix. Trail mix is a satisfying snack that is high in protein and fiber, made by mixing nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is has a lot of health benefits and it’s tasty. Instead of chips and nachos, eat roasted chickpeas. They’re a crunchy and protein-packed snack that can be flavored with your favorite spices.
There are so many ways to make movie night a healthy night. Share snacks with a friend or family member to cut down on portion sizes, or be mindful of portion sizes if you make your own snacks or purchase them at the theater. By following these tips, you can still enjoy a treat without filling up on junk food. There are lots of fun recipes make with your family that make movie night even more special.
