I know it's not easy trying to eat healthy — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free or booze-free — during a Super Bowl party.

I mean, who wants to be that person, right?

Wedged in the corner, sipping tap water and trying to avoid eye contact with the onion dip.

But here's the deal: there will always be something that threatens to get in the way of our healthy habits. This weekend, it happens to be Super Bowl.

After this weekend, it'll be Valentine's Day. And then St. Patrick's Day. And then Spring Break. And then… summer, which is like one big free-for-all.

At some point, we need to acknowledge the fact that sticking with healthy habits probably means that we can't be “good” all of the time. But that also means we don't have to be “bad” all of the time. Even when we're at a party.

The goal is to stick with the good stuff most of the time — like 80-90%. This is easy enough to do when we're at the gym, or virtuously sipping a green smoothie. But it can also be pulled off at a Super Bowl party. I promise you!

The trick to sticking to your healthy habits this Sunday is to have a solid game plan, and to arrive at the party prepared for victory… for your health!

Tips and recipes for a healthy Super Bowl 

Start out the day with something healthy — Set the intention for the day by squeezing in a workout Sunday morning. It doesn't have to be epic, either. It could be something as simple as a walk outside, or 20 minutes of yoga. Then, enjoy something healthy for breakfast, such as this Mango Kale-Ada Smoothie. Or my Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Bowl with Caramelized Banana and Chia. 

If you're hosting, make something for your health-minded friends — Help your workout and yoga buddies feel welcome by preparing delicious fare made especially with their needs in mind. You could try my One Pot Vegan Chili — it's one of my post popular recipes from my Camp Kale program, and I've provided instructions on how to make it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop. I usually serve this chili with a fun assortment of toppings: chopped avocado, pumpkin seeds, red onion, cilantro, and this insanely delicious Vegan Chipotle Lava Sauce. In fact, I'll be making a batch of Lava Sauce to drizzle over potato nachos this weekend.

If you're not hosting, eat before you go — The last thing you want to do is go to a party hungry. Or thirsty! Be sure to hydrate, and fill up on a healthy meal at home. Then, go to your party. That way, you'll be less tempted by the buffet or bar. I recommend something hearty and filling before hitting the party, such as this Quick Chickpea Curry or Coconut Curried Lentil Soup.

Take healthy food — Upgrade your friend's potluck by bringing something healthy. I almost always bring a salad, like this Delicata Squash and Apple Salad. Or, you could go for something more substantial, such as this savory Kale Caesar with Crispy Chickpea Croutons and dairy-free Parmesan Sprinkle. You could also spice up the buffet table with my Spicy Sriracha Hummus or Crowd Pleasing Mexican Party Dip. Or, if you want to bring more of a snack, you could try this Spicy Seed Mix. For dessert, satisfy everyone's sweet tooth in a healthier way with these No Bake Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Energy Bites. 

Take booze-free drinks — When I'm not drinking alcohol, I bring a growler of my favorite kombucha to the party. This might sound strange at first, but it's always well received by the non-drinkers and fellow health nuts in the crowd. In fact, you might want to bring 2 of those growlers! So much more festive than ice water or the kiddos' sparkling cider.  If you have a little more time to make a batch of your own mocktail to share, check out my Hibiscus Iced Tea. 

Hang out with the health nuts — There's a common saying that you are the sum of the five people you hang out with the most. In other words, if you want to be healthy, hang out with health-minded people. This is especially important at a party. Find the non-drinkers and fitness nuts and people who are on a cleanse. Chances are, you'll make better decisions when you're under their influence… instead of the influence of a third margarita.

If you go too far — If your best intentions go off-roading for the night, simply pick yourself up the next day with a sweaty workout, and my Tummy Tamer Smoothie with fresh papaya and lime.

I hope this post helps you enjoy Super Bowl in a healthier way.

Feel free to share your kitchen creations and healthy habit inspiration over on Instagram. I'd love to see what you're up to this Super Bowl Sunday!