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A trip to the movies is a classic summer activity, but it can also come with oversized portions, sugary drinks, and plenty of shared surfaces. The good news? You can still enjoy the full movie theater experience without sacrificing your health goals or catching an illness.
Here are a few simple do’s and don’ts from Sunil Sapru, MD, Section Chief of Department of Medicine at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and member of the RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, to help you make healthier choices during your next night at the movies.
Selecting the Right Seat
Do: Aim for seats in the center section of the theater, ideally toward the middle or back rows. This position allows you to view the screen more comfortably and can help reduce neck strain.
Don’t: Sit in the very front rows, where constantly looking upward can lead to neck stiffness and eye fatigue.
Keeping Germs Out of the Picture
Do: Bring a travel-sized hand sanitizer or antibacterial wipes. Wipe down shared surfaces (armrests, cup holders, ticket kiosks, and arcade games) before settling into your seat and sanitize your hands before eating.
Don’t: Dig into your popcorn or candy without cleaning your hands first. A few extra seconds of prevention can help reduce your risk of picking up unwanted germs.
Picking Your Popcorn Size
Do: Order a small or kid’s-size popcorn and ask for it without added butter. You’ll still get the movie theater tradition while cutting back on excess calories and saturated fat.
Don’t: Upgrade to the large bucket just because the refill is free. It’s easy to eat far more than you intended while distracted by the film.
Determining Your Drinks
Do: Choose water, sparkling water, or unsweetened iced tea. If you’re craving something fizzy, a diet soda can be a lower-sugar option.
Don’t: Order a large regular fountain soda. Many contain more added sugar than the recommended daily limit in a single serving.
Choosing Your Candy
Do: Treat yourself by sharing a single box of candy with family or friends. Splitting a snack helps keep portions reasonable while still satisfying your sweet tooth.
Don’t: Buy a king-size or family-size box with the intention of finishing it yourself. Those extra servings can add up quickly.
Enjoying the Show
Movie nights are about making memories, relaxing, and having fun. By making a few small, intentional choices, you can enjoy your favorite summer blockbuster while supporting your overall health and wellness.