Calgary Stampede food: Tips to avoid guilt from eating badly

A day out at the Calgary Stampede typicallyfeatures one or two midway treats that are high in calories, fat ...and guilt.

Casey Berglund, a local registered dietitian, encourages people to be mindful about their Stampede eating to avoid the pangs of guilt that can come with indulging in foods found on the grounds.

"People feel guilty when they make a lot of mindless decisions and overconsume... if you can go into Stampede and take a pause and plan what you want, your experience will be enjoyable," said Berglund.

Other tips provided for a healthier, yet fun, Stampede eating experience include drinking water, packing healthier snacks like homemade trail mixor fruit, and sharing larger midway food items with friends.

While at the Stampede this year, Berglund sampled a Mac and Cheese Stuffed Burger, but was on the hunt for a decadent treat that satisfied multiple cravings the salted caramel deep-fried coffee.

Berglundand first-time Stampede-goerVeronica Grant ofDallas, Tx., identified the treat on the Calgary Stampede 2016 Featured Food website.

Although Berglund and Grant consumed two high-calorie goodies, Berglund says: "One day at the Stampede won't make or break your diet."

• Calgary Stampede 2016 midway food includes 'bug balls,' deep-fried butter tarts and various stuffed meats
• Calgary Stampede 2016 Sneak-a-Peek