Sometimes there’s nothing like enjoying a spoonful of cold ice cream, a warm chocolate chip cookie or a bowl of crunchy kettle cooked potato chips. It’s good to “treat yo self” every now and then, since a healthy diet is all about moderation.
For the times when you’re craving something unhealthy but know you should be eating something healthier, we’ve got some suggestions so you don’t have to sacrifice good taste for nutrition!
Eat This: Emerald Cocoa Roast AlmondsNot That: Peanut M&Ms
When you’re craving a small, crunchy and chocolate-flavored snack, reach for these cocoa roast almonds over the sugar-filled M&Ms candies. The almonds are only dusted with cocoa powder, but they have plenty of flavor and can be equally satisfying. A 100-calorie pack serving contains 100 calories and only 1 gram of sugar, and the healthy fats in the nuts are much more beneficial for your health.
Eat This: Larabar Chocolate Chip BrownieNot That: Quaker Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bar
In a rush to class and need to grab something to eat quickly? Try the chocolate chip brownie nut bar from Larabar over a Quaker chocolate chip chewy granola bar. The Larabar contains Fair Trade chocolate chips and cocoa, dates, almonds, walnuts and fiber, which will keep you full while satisfying your chocolate craving. Meanwhile, the Quaker granola bars come up short on protein and fiber, so you’ll be getting more nutrition for your buck when you eat a Larabar.
Eat This: Frozen Yogurt with Fresh FruitNot That: Ice Cream
Both of these options will satisfy your sweet tooth, but the froyo packs extra health benefits in as well. Yogurt contains active cultures, which are good for your digestive system, so make sure you pick a kind of froyo that contains them. Adding a few handfuls of fresh fruit to your treat as well will boost it up with vitamins and antioxidants.
Eat This: Kale ChipsNot That: Potato Chips
Enjoying a handful of potato chips might feel good in the moment, but chips are super greasy and contain 10 grams of fat per one-ounce serving, which can leave you feeling unsatisfied. Instead, try munching on some crunchy kale chips. Kale contains vitamins A and C for a healthy immune system, vitamin K for cancer prevention, calcium for your teeth and bones and iron for overall health benefits and blood cell regulation. It’s also a great detox food because it keeps your liver healthy. The chips are a super easy DIY snack: rinse and tear off sections of kale, drizzle some oil or salt and pepper on top, and bake for 20 minutes at 300 degrees, flipping the chips over after 10 minutes.