Headed to a tailgating party? There are healthy ways to stay in the game without sacrificing on flavor or fun during pre-game festivities.

Tidelands Health registered dietitian Salem Hough laid out some strategic plays to keep you safe, healthy and happy as you prepare for kick off with friends or family:

Often, tailgating parties include fat-laden foods like burgers and hot dogs, deep-fried chicken wings, potato chips and dips and carb-heavy salads. Try to steer clear of these if you’re grazing, but if you’re hosting the party, Hough suggested serving these healthier alternatives:

• Buffalo chicken quesadilla
• Carolina gold BBQ chicken sandwich
• Vegetarian victory chili
• Potato salad with kale pesto
• Sweet potato turnover

Mixed drinks and beer are popular beverages of choice at tailgates, but side-lining water could take you out of the game. Hough recommends drinking water in between alcoholic beverages.

“Alcohol suppresses the antidiuretic hormone, which can cause you to urinate more often and lose water faster than you take in,” she said. “Without replenishing fluids while drinking alcohol, you increase your risk of dehydration, which can cause headaches, nausea and diarrhea.”

• Adhere to the 1:1 rule if drinking, which means for every one alcoholic beverage consumed, have one glass of water.
• Drink no more than one standard drink (12-oz beer, 4-oz wine or 1-oz liquor) per hour.
• Skip the alcohol altogether for a custom-made concoction.

“Mocktails are getting their time in the spotlight recently, and it is for good reason,” Hough said. “There are many types of non-alcoholic beers, wines and liquors on the market that can be enjoyed without the risks. Have fun with it and mix up your own flavored drinks using sparkling water, fruits and flavor enhancers.”

Tailgating can linger on for hours and potentially compromise food safety, especially during warmer weather. Eating food that has sat for a prolonged period can lead to sickness. Eating improperly cooked foods also can cause illness.

• Keep hot foods at a temperature of 140 degrees F to prevent bacteria growth.
• Use a hot plate, warming tray or slow cooker to keep food warm.
• Keep cold foods at or below 40 degrees F to prevent bacteria growth.
• Use ice coolers to keep foods cold.
• Hot or cold food left out at room temperature should be eaten within one to two hours.
• Cook foods to the appropriate temperature.
• Bring extra utensils to avoid cross-contamination and a meat thermometer to check for proper cooking temps.
• Discard anything that touches raw, uncooked meats or clean thoroughly with hot water and soap.

The weather during football season can fluctuate between hot and humid and cold and breezy. To avoid falling victim to heat exhaustion or suffering from the discomfort of cold temperatures, dress accordingly, Hough suggested.

• No matter the temperature, stay hydrated with water or an electrolyte drink.
• Choose lightweight, breathable and sweat-absorbent fabrics like linen or cotton in hotter temperatures.
• Dress in layers during colder temperatures.

After the game, there’s plenty to consider in keeping you and others safe.

• Assign someone to be the designated driver or hire a Lyft or Uber driver to get home safely if you’ve consumed alcohol.
• Be on the lookout for kids and adults in the parking lot and roadways as they leave the game.
• Drive slowly when departing to avoid driving over any garbage or debris left from tailgating festivities, which can damage your tires or vehicle.

“Tailgating is a great way to bring people together to enjoy food, fellowship and football,” Hough said. “Choosing what and how much you eat and drink can keep you from feeling worse than the losing team.”