Satisfy Your Unhealthy Cravings With Good-For-You Options

by Melanie VanDerveer for Deerfield Spa

We all have cravings. The question is – do you cave in or do you find a healthy substitution? Sometimes it’s just the salt you desire and sometimes it’s the crunch. There are some healthier options that can trick your brain into being satisfied.

Potato chips

Who doesn’t love the crunch and salt of a good potato chip? Kale chips with sea salt can definitely make you feel like you are eating traditional, unhealthy potato chips. If it’s salt you are looking for, olives, pickles, whole grain pretzels, and nuts also make for a satisfying substitution.

French fries

We all enjoy a good plate of fries from time to time. Whether it’s the grease, the salt, or the toppings (cheese, gravy, bacon) we all love that bad treat time and time again. So how can you trick your body into thinking it’s had fries? It’s not always an easy one, but here are some good options.

• Edamame with sea salt
• Baked avocado fries
• Whole grain chips and salsa

Cake, cupcakes, cookies

Sometimes, it’s just about changing a few ingredients to make a recipe healthier. This is true for baked goods. Using Stevia instead of sugar, fruit instead of chocolate, and less butter in the recipe can help change an unhealthy treat into something more desirable to a health-conscious person. Try this recipe for under 100 calorie cookies next time you want a sweet snack.

Candy

Halloween and Easter present one big problem for people trying to eat better – too much candy! So just how do you calm that craving without giving in? Dark chocolate is a great option, in small doses. Organic fruit snacks can be a good substitute to your typical fruit flavored candy. Dried fruit might kill a craving or two, as well. An all-natural granola bar can certainly make you think you’re eating something more decadent, especially if there’s chocolate chips in it.

Sodas, juices, sugary drinks

For most people trying to eat/drink better, soda is the first thing they give up. A great way to trick your mind into thinking you’re enjoying soda is to have a glass of seltzer with fresh squeezed fruit in it. Lemon or lime works great. Water with fresh squeezed lemon is a great drink with many health benefits. And once you start getting your mind and body used to drinking lemon water, that’s all you’ll want. With so many health benefits, it’s a great drink to start and end your day.

Other health-friendly snacks

• Hard-boiled eggs
• String cheese/cubes of cheese
• Raw veggies
• Organic applesauce with no added sugar
• Organic yogurt
• Trail mix
• Whole grain tortilla chips with salsa
• Fruit smoothies with no added sugar
• Nitrate-free deli meat and cheese roll-ups

Your Wellness Tip To-Go:

Now that you know some healthy swaps for unhealthy cravings – try practicing working with your cravings instead of against them. Get all you need to know here.