Lights, camera, action…there is nothing more exciting than going to the movies and seeing the latest drama, chick flick or action-packed adventure. But while we marvel at the phenomenal shape the actors have attained for their roles, we could literally roll out of our seat after consuming thousands of calories in popcorn, candy and soda.
Yes, the calories from a large popcorn laden with dripping butter equals 1,500 calories, 116 grams of fat and 90 grams of carbs. Add in those infamous Sno-Caps and you can tack on an additional 360 calories, 12 grams of fat and 56 grams of carbs. Nachos with cheese will set you back 1,101 calories, 59 grams of fat and 131.5 grams of carbs. That monstrous 3-liter of Coca-Cola which will have you sprinting to the bathroom as soon as the credits start to roll, will add up to a hefty number of 353 calories and 88.4 grams of carbs.
The good news is soon, those of us health-conscious folk won’t have to sneak healthy snacks in our purse when we go to the theater. I admit that I usually stock mine with unsalted peanuts or trail mix and sometimes an energy bar. Thank goodness they sell water at the concession stand.
The head of Sony Pictures offered the suggestion to provide a healthy snack option at concession stands at a recent convention in Las Vegas. Michael Lynton, chairman and chief executive officer for Sony Pictures stated that the results of surveys indicated that moviegoers would be likely to buy the healthy snacks if they were available.
Results of the survey also found that parents would buy healthier concessions at theaters if they were offered. This is especially helpful in working to combat the childhood obesity epidemic. The move to focus movie concessions in a healthier direction has to do mainly with the urgency to target areas where children are consuming snacks, in particularly at the movies, sporting events, etc. Movies are a favorite past-time for families and kids, with many going often. Therefore, healthier alternatives need to be provided.
The healthy food options could include fruit cups,veggies with dip, yogurt, granola bars, baked chips and butter-free, air-popped popcorn. The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, an organization co-launched by President Bill Clinton and the American Heart Association in an effort to combat childhood obesity, may advise the theaters on their healthier concession options.
Lynton wants to keep the staples of popcorn, soda and candy as an option. My advice is, if you want to splurge, share with a friend, or two or three. The portions are way too big and the calories way too high.
Joanne Sgro is a Television Fitness Expert, Certified Personal Trainer and Sport Nutritionist. She is Certified in Pilates, Pre-natal/Post-Partum, Yoga and Senior Fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, Post-Rehab and Post Cancer Training. Joanne's fitness plans and recipes are available globally on her website www.fitnessanswer.com. She resides in the Phoenix, AZ area with her fiancé, where she runs her personal training business, Fitness Answer, LLC.