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The Best (and Worst) Classic Snack Foods at a Baseball Game

There’s no shortage of tempting food at baseball games, especially at Citizens Bank Park. (Tony Luke’s cheesesteaks and Chickie’s and Pete’s crabfries, anyone?) It’s a long baseball season, which means many trips to the ballpark — and its concession stands — these coming months. Here’s a quick guide on how to not sabotage your beach body while rooting for the home team.

ALWAYS

1. Peanuts. A baseball staple, but just keep the serving size down to one cup. If done correctly, you’ll get a low-carb, protein-packed snack. (Tip: The shelled peanuts make you work a little extra harder, too, which slows down the eating process.)

2. Frozen Yogurt. Low-calorie fro-yo served in those mini baseball helmets is great for two reasons: It satisfies a sweet tooth and is pre-served in a modest size. For toppings, pick fresh fruit over candy.

SOMETIMES

1. Hot dogs. If you do cheat, a standard 2-ounce hot dog and a regular bun should come in under 300 calories. A naked dog is best, but fixings like sauerkraut or raw onions are a better alternative to the empty calories in artificial cheese and chili options. Bonus: Citizen’s Bank park offers vegan hot dogs and gluten-free buns as an option for those with strict diets. Vegan dogs even count on Dollar Dog nights (not that that means you should have 5).

2. Soft pretzels. Forgo the salt and dipping cheese, and an occasional 5-ounce soft pretzel — albeit high in carbs — isn’t the worst choice at a concession stand. But if the ballpark pretzel is supersized, definitely split it with your seatmate.

NEVER

1. Nachos. Expect at least 1,500 calories for a 12-ounce serving of chips and cheese, plus loads of salt and additives from processed cheese.

2. Cotton Candy. One three-ounce bag (what is typically sold at stadiums) is low in calories, but also contains a staggering 53 grams of sugar.

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Sponsor content is created for IBX by Philadelphia magazine as a marketing collaboration with IBX. This material is intended for reference and information only and should not be used in place of advice from a doctor or suitable qualified healthcare professional