Everyone loves their comfort foods and snacks. The problem is, these foods often play havoc on our waistline and health. Is there a way to enjoy these pleasures and still avoid the fake foods and high calories? Are there natural, wholesome, nourishing foods we can swap that still taste great? Yes!
Swapping whole foods and cooking at home is the place to start! French fries are difficult to pass up, but potatoes, which are naturally high in potassium, can be roasted in the oven at home for a healthier side dish. Cut up potatoes, toss with olive oil and Kosher salt before roasting. Try sweet potatoes for the added beta-carotene. Using whole foods boosts nutrients and fiber, and reduces artificial flavoring, additives and bad fats. Whole foods generally have a lower glycemic index which will lessen spikes in blood sugar.
When creating meals with ground meat, mix in various types of beans! Beans increase fiber and nutrients, make you feel full faster, along with reducing the overall meat and fat content. When making spaghetti, substitute zucchini for the pasta! “Zoodles” or zucchini noodles can be made quickly with a zoodle maker, which is inexpensive and easily found in local supermarkets. Boil or sauté with add garlic, sea salt and Italian spices. They are absolutely fantastic! The glycemic, carb and calorie load are much lower than pasta, and with the extra fiber to boot!
What about desserts? Ice cream is such a delicious and tempting snack! Is there a swap idea? A quick, simple and delicious swap is to take a frozen banana and blend it with one tablespoon of cocoa powder and one teaspoon of maple syrup. Like potatoes, bananas are rich in potassium and fiber. Cocoa is a great source of magnesium too!