Article at a Glance
- Opening Day for baseball is March 28th this year, go out and support your Rangers and Astros!
- While you’re at the ballpark, avoid deep fried and sugary foods to save your teeth a bit of wear and tear.
- Some of the best options at the ballpark include salads and lean proteins.
- A good option for Texas Rangers opening day would be the roasted vegetable spinach wrap. If you’re a die-hard Astros fan, check out the fruit bowl or one of the many salads.
Take me out to the ballgame and bring on those peanuts and cracker jacks. Whether you’re rooting for the Rangers or the Astros, get ready for Opening Day! Before you head to the stadium, we’ve got some tips for eating at the ballpark.
Foods You Should Skip at the Ballpark
Foot-long hot dogs, nachos piled high with cheese, cotton candy, and grease-laden burgers are fine for the occasional binge but eating them on a regular basis is bad for your health. Some of the most popular ballpark foods are actually terrible for your teeth, and when you’re at the stadium for a baseball game, brushing and flossing probably isn’t on your to-do list.
When you know you’re not going to be able to brush or floss for a few hours, think about what you’re eating and avoid some foods.
- Fried food tastes great and the ballpark offers just about anything deep fried, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good option for your teeth. Try something grilled instead to avoid the excess grease and fats.
- Sugary treats like cotton candy, sour gummies, and ice cream are awesome while taking in a game, but all of that sugar is tough on your teeth and sticks around for a long time after eating.
- Skip the ice-cold beer or soda and choose water to keep you hydrated. Water is also better for your teeth and you can swish it around to remove bacteria and residue from food.
What is the Best Ballpark Food for My Teeth?
From sushi to veggie-filled wraps, ballpark food has definitely evolved to include lighter fare. The new additions to ballpark menus have opened the door for cleaner eating without compromising the fun.
Colorful, flavorful fare is available at every ballpark and many have established signature low-cal, nutrient rich alternatives to classic dishes. When choosing your ballpark food, consider your options and choose foods that are good for your teeth when possible.
- Foods that require a lot of chewing will stimulate saliva production which will help clear bacteria off your teeth.
- Lean proteins like grilled chicken or fish are excellent options, especially when paired with leafy greens.
- Fruit bowls, veggie plates, and salads are clean eating options that are mostly water and loaded with nutrients. Be wary of dressings and additives, though.
- Plain, unsalted nuts are fun to crack open and not only are they low-carb, they also provide protein and minerals you need.
You don’t have to eat an entire serving, it’s okay to share with your friends and family. Split items that are larger than normal serving sizes and savor every bite. Remember, you don’t have to finish everything before the 7th inning stretch. Make your ballpark food a part of the experience by relishing every bite.
Good Eats at Texas Rangers Stadium
If you’re looking for a lighter meal loaded with nutrition and flavor, Global Life Park boasts a roasted vegetable spinach wrap that’s low calorie but will leave you satisfied. With over one hundred concessions spread across the three concourses, you’re sure to find something that will appease your taste buds.
Great Food at Houston Astros Stadium
Minute Maid Park offers a fresh fruit platter that is colorful, healthy, and loaded with nutrients. Just be wary of the high acidity of some of the fruits. There are several options for healthy eaters including salads and vegetarian dishes. Look for the Marketplace, H Town Grille, and Texas Legends for your best light fare selections on Houston Astro opening day.
Enjoy the Game, Protect Your Teeth
Baseball is the American past time and part of the experience is old-fashioned stadium food. Taking one day to indulge in the joy and nostalgia of baseball may include a footlong hot dog with chili, an ice-cold beer or soda, and cracker jacks. Just remember to brush and floss when you get home and follow up with your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
If you’ve opted to splurge on opening day or you’re due for a check-up and teeth cleaning, now is a great time to schedule an appointment at the Jefferson Dental Care Clinic nearest you.
Sources:
https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/healthy-eats-at-each-major-league-ballpark/15/
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/good-foods-slideshow
https://www.self.com/gallery/ballpark-food-dos-and-donts-slideshow
https://www.mlb.com/astros/ballpark/information/concessions
https://www.mlb.com/rangers/ballpark
