STM Blog
Wings, booze and heartbreak – what my research says about the hidden costs of sports fandom
The research indicates that while sports fandom fosters social connections and emotional well-being, it can negatively impact physical health through unhealthy eating and drinking habits.
Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Wings, booze and heartbreak – what my research says about the hidden costs of sports fandom
Aaron Mansfield, Merrimack College
Being from Buffalo means getting to eat some of the best wings in the world. It means scraping snow and ice off your car in frigid mornings. And it means making a lifelong vow to the city’s NFL franchise, the Bills – for better or worse, till death do us part.
When I grew up in New York’s second-largest city, my community was bound together by loyalty to a football team that always found new ways to break our hearts. And yet at the start of each NFL season, we always found reasons to hope – we couldn’t help ourselves.
Coming from this football-crazed culture, I often wondered about the psychology of fandom. This eventually led me to pursue a Ph.D. in sport consumer behavior. As a doctoral student, I was most interested in one question: Is fandom good for us?
I found a huge body of research on the psychological and social effects of fandom, and it certainly made being devoted to a team look good. Fandom builds belonging, helps adults make friends, boosts happiness and even provides a buffer against traumatic life events.
So, fandom is great, right?
As famed football commentator Lee Corso would say: “Not so fast, my friend.”
While fandom appears to be a boon for our mental health, strikingly little research had been conducted on the relationship between fandom and physical health.
So I decided to conduct a series of studies – mainly of people in Western countries – on this topic. I found that being a sports fan can have some drawbacks for physical health, especially among the most committed fans.
Reach for the nachos
Playing sports is healthy. But watching them? Not so much.
Tailgating culture revolves around alcohol. Research shows that college sports fans binge drink at significantly higher rates than nonfans, are more likely to do something they later regretted and are more likely to drive drunk. Meanwhile, watch parties encourage being stationary for hours and mindlessly snacking. And, of course, fandom goes hand in hand with heavily processed foods like wings, nachos, pizza and hot dogs.
One fan told me that when watching games, his relationship with food is “almost Pavlovian”; he craves “decadent” foods the same way he seeks out popcorn at the movies.
Inside the stadium, healthy options have traditionally been scarce and overpriced. A Sports Illustrated writer joked in 1966 that fans leave stadiums and arenas with “the same body chemistry as a jelly doughnut.”
Little seems to have changed since. One Gen Z fan I recently interviewed griped, “You might find one salad with a plain piece of lettuce and a quarter of a tomato.”
Eating away the anxiety and pain
The relationship between fandom and physical health isn’t just about guzzling beer, sitting for hours on end or scarfing down hot dogs.
One study analyzed sales from grocery stores. The researchers found that fans consume more calories – and less healthy food – on the day following a loss by their favorite team, a reaction the researchers tied to stress and disappointment.
My colleagues and I found something similar: Fandom induces what’s called “emotional eating.”
Emotions like anger, sadness and disappointment lead to stronger cravings. And this relationship is tied to how your favorite team performs when it matters most. For example, we found that games between rivals and closely contested games yield more pronounced effects. Emotional states generated by the game are also significantly correlated with increased beer sales in the stadium.
High-calorie cultures
In another paper, my co-authors and I found that fans often feel torn between their desire to make healthy choices and their commitment to being a “true fan.”
Every fan base develops its own culture. These unwritten rules vary from team to team, and they aren’t just about wearing a cheesehead hat or waving a Terrible Towel. They also include expectations around drinking, eating and lifestyle.
These health-related norms are shaped by a variety of factors, including the region’s culture, team history and even team sponsorships.
For example, the Cincinnati Bengals partner with Skyline Chili, a regional chain that makes a meat sauce that’s often poured over hot dogs or spaghetti. One Bengals fan I interviewed observed that if you attend a Bengals game, sure, you could eat something else – but a “true fan” eats Skyline.
I have two studies in progress that show how hardcore fans typically align their health behaviors with the health norms of their fan base. This becomes a way to signal their allegiance to the team, improve their standing among fellow fans, and contribute to what makes the fan base distinct in the eyes of its members.
In Buffalo, for example, tailgating often revolves around alcohol – so much so that Bills fans have a reputation for over-the-top drinking rituals.
And in New Orleans, Saints fans often link fandom to Louisiana food traditions. As one fan explained: “People make a bunch of fried food or huge pots of gumbo or étouffée, and eat all day – from hours before the game until hours after.”
A new generation of health-conscious fans
The fan experience is shaped by the culture in which it is embedded. Teams actively help shape these cultures, and there’s a business argument to be had for teams to play a bigger role in changing some of these norms.
Gen Z is strikingly health-conscious. They’re also less engaged with traditional fandom.
If stadiums and tailgates continue to revolve around beer and nachos, why would a generation attuned to fitness influencers and “fitspiration” buy in? To reach this market, I think the sports industry will need to promote its professional sports teams in new ways.
Some teams are already doing so. The British soccer team Liverpool has partnered with the exercise equipment company Peloton. Another club, Manchester City, has teamed up with a nonalcoholic beer brand as the official sponsor of its practice uniforms.
And several European soccer clubs have even joined a “Healthy Stadia” movement, revamping in-stadium food options and encouraging fans to walk and bike to the stadium.
For the record, I don’t think the solution is replacing typical fan foods with smoothies and salads. Alienating core consumers is generally not a sound business strategy.
I think it’s reasonable, however, to suggest sports teams might add more healthy options and carefully evaluate the signals they send through sponsorships.
As one fan I recently interviewed said: “The NFL has had half-assed efforts like Play 60” – a campaign encouraging kids to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day – “while also making a ton of money from beer, food and, back in the day, cigarette advertisements. How can sports leagues seriously expect people to be healthier if they promote unhealthy behaviors?”
Today’s consumers want to support brands that reflect their values. This is particularly true for Gen Zers, many of whom are savvy enough to see through hollow campaigns and quick to reject hypocrisy. In the long run, I think this type of dissonance – sandwiching a Play 60 commercial between ads for Uber Eats and Anheuser-Busch – will prove counterproductive.
I, as much as anyone else, understand what makes fandom special – and yes, I’ve eaten my share of wings during Bills games. But public health is a pressing concern, and though the sports industry is well-positioned to address this issue, fandom isn’t helping. Actually, my research suggests it’s having the opposite effect.
Striking the balance I’m advocating will be tricky, but the sports industry is filled with bright problem-solvers. In the film “Moneyball,” Brad Pitt’s character, Billy Beane, famously says sports teams must “adapt or die.” He was referring to the need for baseball teams to integrate analytics into their decision-making.
Professional sports teams eventually got that message. Maybe they’ll get this one, too.
Aaron Mansfield, Assistant Professor of Sport Management, Merrimack College
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
https://stmdailynews.com/%f0%9f%93%9c-who-created-blogging-a-look-back-at-the-birth-of-the-blog/
The Knowledge
Exploring the Best Neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles
From the Arts District and Little Tokyo to the Historic Core and Bunker Hill, discover the best neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles and what makes each one worth exploring.
Last Updated on August 5, 2026 by Daily News Staff
The Best Neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations of any urban center in the United States. Once known primarily as the city’s business district, DTLA has evolved into a vibrant collection of neighborhoods, each offering its own unique character, history, dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a longtime Angeleno, or planning your next weekend adventure, these are some of Downtown LA’s must-visit neighborhoods.
Arts District: Where Creativity Comes to Life
The Arts District has become one of the city’s most exciting destinations. Former warehouses have been transformed into lofts, art galleries, coffee shops, breweries, and award-winning restaurants.
Visitors can spend hours exploring colorful murals, browsing independent boutiques, and discovering public art around nearly every corner. It’s a neighborhood that celebrates creativity while preserving its industrial roots.
Perfect for: Art lovers, photographers, foodies, and nightlife.
Historic Core: A Walk Through Old Los Angeles
The Historic Core showcases Downtown LA’s architectural heritage. Along Broadway and surrounding streets, beautifully restored theaters, historic hotels, and early 20th-century buildings tell the story of a booming city during Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Highlights include the iconic Bradbury Building, Grand Central Market, and numerous rooftop restaurants overlooking the skyline.
Perfect for: History buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
South Park: Entertainment Central
South Park is home to some of Los Angeles’ biggest attractions, including LA Live and Crypto.com Arena. The neighborhood has added thousands of apartments, new restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues over the past two decades.
Whether you’re attending a Lakers game, a concert, or simply enjoying dinner before an event, South Park offers something for everyone.
Perfect for: Sports fans, concerts, and nightlife.
Little Tokyo: A Cultural Treasure
One of only a handful of historic Japantowns remaining in the United States, Little Tokyo offers authentic Japanese cuisine, specialty shops, cultural events, museums, and peaceful gardens.
From fresh sushi and ramen to Japanese bakeries and tea houses, visitors can experience generations of cultural heritage in just a few city blocks.
Perfect for: Families, food lovers, and cultural exploration.
Bunker Hill: Downtown’s Cultural Heart
Bunker Hill combines modern architecture with world-class arts and culture. Home to Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and Grand Park, this neighborhood is ideal for visitors looking to experience Downtown’s artistic side.
Its dramatic skyline and public spaces also make it one of the most photographed areas in Los Angeles.
Perfect for: Museum lovers and architecture fans.
Financial District: The Skyline of Los Angeles
Glass skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and bustling sidewalks define the Financial District. While it remains the city’s business center during the workweek, the neighborhood also offers excellent dining, rooftop lounges, and convenient access to other parts of Downtown.
Chinatown: Tradition Meets Modern LA
Los Angeles’ Chinatown blends rich history with a growing collection of contemporary restaurants, galleries, and community events. Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine alongside modern culinary experiences while exploring one of the city’s oldest cultural neighborhoods.
Fashion District: A Shopper’s Paradise
Covering more than 100 city blocks, the Fashion District is one of the largest garment centers in the country. Whether you’re searching for fabrics, clothing, accessories, or bargains at Santee Alley, this neighborhood attracts shoppers from across Southern California.
A Downtown That Continues to Evolve
Downtown Los Angeles isn’t just one destination—it’s a collection of neighborhoods that reflect the city’s diversity, creativity, and resilience. From historic landmarks and world-class museums to vibrant street art and internationally inspired cuisine, DTLA offers something new around nearly every corner.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended visit, exploring these neighborhoods is one of the best ways to experience the energy and history of Los Angeles.
Related External Links
- Discover Los Angeles – Explore Downtown LA
- Grand Central Market
- The Broad Museum
- Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Japanese American National Museum (Little Tokyo)
- Arts District Los Angeles
- LA Live
- LA Metro – Getting Around Downtown Los Angeles
- Olvera Street and El Pueblo Historic Monument
- Visit California – Los Angeles Travel Guide
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STM Blog
Association of Black Cardiologists to Celebrate Legacy and Leadership at 16th Annual Spirit of the Heart Awards
The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) is bringing its signature celebration of impact back to New York City this fall—spotlighting leaders and organizations working to make cardiovascular care more equitable, more accessible, and more effective. The 16th Annual Spirit of the Heart Awards Program & Fundraiser is set for Saturday, October 3, 2026 (6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.) at Cipriani Wall Street in Manhattan.
For ABC, the evening is more than a high-profile awards program. It’s a cornerstone fundraising event that helps power the organization’s year-round work—supporting medical student scholarships, fellowships, education, and programs designed to strengthen the pipeline of diverse clinicians and researchers while improving outcomes in communities that carry a disproportionate burden of heart disease.
A fundraising night with long-term stakes
ABC leaders say the Spirit of the Heart Awards is built around a simple idea: celebrating progress while investing in the people who will drive the next wave of change.
Event co-chair Icilma Fergus, MD—Director of the Cardiovascular Disparities Center at Mount Sinai Medical Center and Board Chair of ABC—framed the night as a forward-looking commitment.
“This gathering is about more than one evening of celebration; it is about investing in the future of cardiovascular health for years to come,” Fergus said in the announcement. She added that the support generated through the event helps expand opportunities for aspiring clinicians, researchers, and leaders whose work can transform care and improve lives nationwide.
Honorary Chairperson: Samin K. Sharma, MD
ABC announced Samin K. Sharma, MD as the event’s Honorary Chairperson. Sharma serves as Chief of Clinical Cardiology, Director of the Cardiovascular Clinical Institute, and the Anandi Lal Sharma Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
In the release, ABC highlighted Sharma’s international reputation in interventional cardiology and physician education, noting that he has trained cardiovascular specialists from around the world while advancing the field through research, mentorship, and patient care.
“I am honored to serve as Honorary Chairperson for this important event,” Sharma said. “The Spirit of the Heart Awards Program reflects the power of partnership, philanthropy, and leadership to advance cardiovascular health.”
A full weekend of impact, including policy
The awards program is part of a broader weekend of programming. On Friday, October 2, ABC will host its Annual Policy Pulse Summit at Venable LLP in New York City, convening leaders to discuss policy issues shaping the future of cardiovascular health.
What to expect at the Spirit of the Heart Awards
ABC is positioning the evening as both a celebration and a community gathering—bringing together leaders from healthcare, philanthropy, industry, and advocacy.
The event will be co-emceed by:
- Sandra Bookman, award-winning journalist and anchor of Eyewitness News on ABC7/WABC-TV New York
- Thomas Cunningham IV, President and Chief Content Officer of BrandCunningham
The program is expected to include:
- Presentation of the Spirit of the Heart Awards
- Recognition of medical student scholarship recipients
- Special guest appearances
- A live auction
- Musical entertainment
Event co-chair Barbara Hutchinson, MD, PhD, President of Chesapeake Cardiac Care, emphasized the role of sustained collaboration in moving the needle on heart health.
“The Spirit of the Heart Awards Program is a reminder that lasting progress in cardiovascular health is achieved through vision, partnership, and sustained commitment,” Hutchinson said.
How to attend, sponsor, or support
ABC is directing attendees and supporters to its event site for tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and donations:
- Event info / tickets / sponsorship / donations: https://abcardioevents.org
About the Association of Black Cardiologists
Founded on the belief that “every heart counts,” the Association of Black Cardiologists works to promote prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and to advance health equity by eliminating disparities. ABC’s membership is open to all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or vocation. The organization’s work spans education, advocacy, research, patient and community outreach, and leadership development.
- Organization website: https://abcardio.org
Source and media contact
- Press release source (PRNewswire): https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/association-of-black-cardiologists-to-celebrate-legacy-and-leadership-at-16th-annual-spirit-of-the-heart-awards-302206000.html
Media Contact (from the release):
- Akeia Blue, VP of Communications
- 419395@email4pr.com
- 240-321-9227
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Travel
Escape the Everyday Routine: Summer Travel Experiences Worth Logging Off For
Summer Travels: Between busy schedules, daily responsibilities and the seemingly nonstop pace of everyday life, taking time to disconnect can feel impossible. This summer, make an effort to step away from daily distractions and reconnect with yourself, your passions and the moments that matter most.
Escape the Everyday Routine: Summer Travel Experiences Worth Logging Off For
(Feature Impact) Between busy schedules, daily responsibilities and the seemingly nonstop pace of everyday life, taking time to disconnect can feel impossible. This summer, make an effort to step away from daily distractions and reconnect with yourself, your passions and the moments that matter most.
Whether it’s a solo seaside escape, a culinary adventure with friends or a memory-making family vacation, World of Hyatt’s Global Summer Offers give members access to exclusive savings of up to 25% on stays at participating hotels and resorts across the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, Latin America, Europe and Africa, making it easy to plan a perfect getaway to escape the everyday this summer.
From paddleboarding in the Bahamas to wandering through Panama’s historic streets, these curated destination recommendations offer inspiration for every kind of traveler.
Sun-Soaked Seaside Escapes
Some summer vacations are about trading packed schedules for ocean breezes and sun-soaked days by the water. For a chic coastal escape, The Georgian, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, brings timeless glamour to the shores of Santa Monica. Just steps from the ocean, this iconic art deco hotel serves as the perfect seaside retreat for biking along the boardwalk, relaxing on the beach and exploring Santa Monica’s vibrant dining scene.
Every detail of a stay at Dreams Puerto Morelos Resort & Spa is crafted to inspire relaxation, connection and discovery. The all-inclusive resort offers a vibrant escape where contemporary comfort meets timeless Caribbean charm in a tropical haven designed for couples and families alike.
Memory-Making Family Adventures
Families looking to make the most of summer together can head to Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, where every day brings a new adventure. From splashing through the resort’s waterpark and visiting the on-site wildlife sanctuary to enjoying family-friendly dining across more than 45 restaurants and lounges, there’s something for guests of all ages to enjoy together.
Along the shores of Kāʻanapali Beach in Maui, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa provides the perfect setting for families to create lasting memories together. Families can fill their days with everything from culinary experiences to sunrise yoga, snorkeling and wildlife tours. Younger guests can even channel their inner sea creature during the resort’s popular mermaid classes.
Flavor-Filled Getaways
Combining contemporary luxury with Moroccan charm, Park Hyatt Marrakech is an authentic gateway to the destination’s rich culinary heritage. Guests can immerse themselves in local culinary traditions through hands-on experiences, from mastering classic dishes alongside the hotel’s chefs to exploring a Berber village market and sharing a home-cooked lunch with a local family.
Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Panama’s vibrant culture and food scene can enjoy a stay at Hyatt Regency Panama City. Whether exploring the colorful streets of Casco Viejo or savoring authentic cuisine at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Rulfo, guests can experience the flavors and energy that define the destination.
Immersive Cultural Discovery
Just steps from Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Hyatt Place Tallinn places guests in the heart of the city’s rich heritage and within easy reach of landmarks such as Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, as well as cobbled medieval streets, world-class museums, independent galleries and vibrant cafés that bring centuries of history to life.
Steeped in history and tucked in the heart of Westminster, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, blends modern luxury with its storied past. Once home to Scottish royalty and later the headquarters of London’s Metropolitan Police, the hotel’s legacy of sophistication and intrigue inspires every detail and standout experience, including its hidden speakeasy-style bar, where inventive cocktails are inspired by the building’s colorful history and Michelin-starred dining.
Set along Savannah’s vibrant riverfront, Thompson Savannah offers a stylish gateway to one of the South’s most charming and culturally rich destinations. Travelers can explore centuries-old architecture in the city’s beautifully preserved Historic District and immerse themselves in the renowned arts scene before unwinding in a private cabana on the hotel’s pool deck or enjoying a cocktail at the rooftop bar.
To find more destinations to aid in the escape from everyday routines, visit Hyatt.com for a full list of participating properties and full offer details.
SOURCE:
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