Parade-proof nutrition: 3 smart rules to keep your energy high until the very last float

It’s Carnival Season (yay!), and if you’ve ever experienced a Mardi Gras parade on the Coast, you know they’re basically an endurance sport.

The sun often is blazing overhead. You’re on your feet for hours while beads are flying, and you brace yourself for the inevitable crash later.

But we wouldn’t have it any other way, right?! Still, that slice of king cake can only hold you over for so long before your energy — and your enjoyment — start to tank. It’s important to stay nourished on the parade route so you can make the most of your day.

FIRST RULE OF PARADE DAY:

DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST

If you are skipping meals to save room for parade goodies, you might want to think again. Skipping meals almost always backfires. A parade-ready breakfast should include a good balance of fiber-rich carbohydrates, lean protein and healthy fats.

SECOND RULE OF PARADE DAY:

BE PREPARED

No two parades are the same, but chances are you’ll be walking, dancing and catching throws — burning a lot of energy in the process. Be sure to bring snacks so you can fuel your body and keep your energy levels up until the last float rolls by. Snacks with a mix of carbs, protein and a little fat can help keep your blood sugar steady. Think snacks like trail mix, fruit and cheese and chicken salad sandwiches.

THIRD (AND MAYBE MOST IMPORTANT) RULE OF PARADE DAY:

HYDRATE

It’s easy to get dehydrated on the parade route. Walking, dancing, warm temps and maybe a cocktail/mocktail or two can add up fast. Be proactive and start drinking water before the parade starts — and consider alternating between water and other beverages to stay ahead of the game.

Parade-proof nutrition isn’t about restricting certain foods or holding yourself accountable to food rules. It’s about eating enough, eating regularly, staying hydrated and loving Mardi Gras for exactly what it is. When your body is properly nourished, you can enjoy the celebration from the first float to the very last.

HEALTHY KING CAKE ENERGY BITES

Ingredients

BASE

• 2 cups rolled oats
• ½ cup nut butter
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt

FILLING

• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp honey
• ¼ tsp cinnamon

TOPPING

• 1-2 tbsp Greek yogurt glaze (also can use white chocolate drizzle)
• Purple, green and gold sprinkles

Instructions

MAKE THE BASE

1. In a large bowl, mix oats, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
2. Stir in nut butter, honey and vanilla until evenly combined.

ADD THE FILLING

1. In a small bowl, mix yogurt, honey and cinnamon.
2. Press half of the oat mixture into a parchment-lined pan.
3. Spread the filling thinly over the base.
4. Press the rest of the oat mixture on top.
5. Drizzle lightly with glaze and add a pinch of purple, green and gold sprinkles.

CHILL AND CUT

1. Refrigerate one to two hours or until firm.
2. Cut into bite-size squares.
3. Pack in your Mardi Gras cooler and enjoy!