Going to the movies is a classic way to decompress and spend a few hours out of the house, and can easily fit into a healthy lifestyle without consuming an upwards of thousands of extra calories in one sitting. Instead of diving into movie theater popcorn, greasy cheese nachos, an oily hotdog, or those cardboard boxes of sugar-stacked candy, bringing your own snacks is a perfect way to stay on track with your goals without feeling barren in those comfy theater seats. These some of the easiest, balanced snacks that are perfect for busy days on the go or that you can easily incorporate into your own movie theater outings:
1) Bring a bottle of water or buy one there. A water bottle is easy to pack in a small bag or purse, and will spare you the blood sugar spiking rush of soda. If carrying one with you isn't feasible, buy one at the theater (although you'll likely pay a premium, since everything is extra at the movies) or ask for a paper cup of ice water (if its not against concession policy).
2) Bring your own snacks! Pack a few favorites into small baggies or grab something small and simple to keep in a bag, purse or if there's room - a pocket. These are a few of my go to's that are easy to mix and match and are movie theater friendly:
Nuts: Treat yourself with a serving of chocolate covered or seasoned nuts.
Fruit: A baggie of berries, sliced apples, peeled oranges, or grapes.
Nut Butter: A mini container or packet of peanut, almond or cashew butter to pair with your fruit.
Healthy Alternative to Candy - Fruit Snacks: Something without unhealthy additives and extra sugar. If you're a gummy candy lover but would prefer a healthier alternative, I've fallen in love with "Nothing But The Fruit" as a 100% real fruit gummy go-to. They are non-GMO, vegan, gluten free, easy to pack anywhere, taste delicious, contain zero artificial flavors, waxes or preservatives, and come from the National Grape Cooperative of high quality, sustainable farmers. Give them a follow and find them at 7500+ Starbucks. Stay tuned for a giveaway on my Instagram!
Veggies and Dip: A baggie of chopped veggies like carrots, celery, cucumbers and a mini container of your favorite dressing for dipping.
3) Time your snacking with other meals. I generally try to time my snack sessions in between more primary meals, so I'm not overeating in a short period of time. For example, time your snacking somewhere around the 2-3 hour mark after finishing your last meal and hold off another 2 or so before the next time you eat. This way you'll be spacing your eating times far enough apart rather than having just eaten, then immediately eating more and going into fat storage mode from an excess of calories.
If timing in that way doesn't work out, don't sweat it! Carry on with good snacking and beverage choices - you'll be doing yourself a favor by steering clear of the junky stuff that would bog you down. I hope you found this helpful - remember, these are just suggestions to help you navigate through normal life with a happy, healthy mind and body. Getting too caught up in what you're eating and when can create unnecessary stress - so simply do your best and enjoy!