Cinema Wars

Are you headed to the movies this weekend? Convinced it’s going to cause diet downfall?

Though going to the movies is a dieting danger zone, you can get through it if you're prepared.

Be Afraid ... Be Very Afraid ...
Ready for some staggering stats? According to CalorieKing.com, a large tub of movie theater popcorn (20 cups) packs in 76 fat grams ... The equivalent of five full size Snickers bars ... or more than six McDonald's cheeseburgers.

As for counting calories, that same bucket of kernels holds about 1,100, shockingly close to most weight loss diet's caloric limit for the entire day (about 1,200 to 1,500).

So, how can you enjoy a flick and still fight fat? After all, the movies aren't nearly as fun without snacks ... especially when everyone else is noshing away. Here are a few ideas:

Make A Preemptive Strike
No matter which diet plan you're following, you can head off over-indulging if you eat a satisfying snack before you leave for the theater. Try the following suggestions:

• Apple slices with the skin with some peanut butter spread on each slice. The fiber in the apple and the protein in the peanut butter make it more filling.
• A plate of raw veggies dipped in low-fat dip and some low-fat cheese cubes. Again, fiber helps you feel fuller and cheese is satisfying.
• Reduced-fat cheese on whole grain crackers will keep your blood sugar at an even keel and hunger at bay.
• Yogurt has enough protein for staying power, too; sprinkle some low-fat granola or some sliced almonds on top to up the satisfaction factor.

Pop at Home; Carry a Large Purse
Watching your fat intake is a real challenge at the theater. Bringing air popped popcorn prepared at home is the perfect alternative. I know, I know, I hear you: "But it's so bland!"

Solution! I recently found a product called Kernel Seasons that really improves air popped popcorn (or any popcorn, for that matter). It comes in 10 flavors, ranging from parmesan garlic to chocolate & marshmallows. It is fat-free and has just 2 calories per serving. You can find a store that carries it or order it online at nomorenakedpopcorn.com.

Or, try: Garlic powder; paprika; cinnamon; Mrs. Dash; or grated parmesan cheese.

Here's a quick tip: You can make powdered topping stick to popcorn better by spraying the popcorn with butter-flavored cooking spray before sprinkling on the topping.

Put the popcorn in a sealed container and shake it up so the topping will be distributed. The cooking spray can also add a buttery flavor alone if you don't want to top it off with anything else.

Continued Snack Ideas for Dieters >>

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