Contributed to Tyrone H.
Being healthy can be achieved by taking lots of little steps. You do not need to go on a radical diet or exercise 5 hours a day, 7 days a week! Little changes, consistently done, can make all the difference. Here are some healthier snack alternatives:
Pistachios vs. Pretzels. Want a crunchy salty snack? The monounsaturated fat in nuts helps lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. A study from UCLA has found that dieters who snacked on pistachios instead of pretzels lost more weight. Be sure to get them unshelled as the work it takes to open pistachios can prevent you from eating mindlessly.
Iced Green Tea vs. Diet Soda. People who drink diet soda have a 70% larger waist over ten years than people who skip soda. Instead, make yourself some iced green tea. It is available in mixtures with other herbal teas so you can change up the flavor. The flavonoids in green tea can help ward off cancer.
Cocoa Powder vs. Peanut Butter. Instead of putting peanut butter in your smoothie, replace it with cocoa powder. One tablespoon is 12 calories vs. 100 calories for the same amount of peanut butter. The flavonoids in cocoa help prevent fat from clogging arteries. Be sure the cocoa is at least 60% or more to get the most out of your cocoa.
Avocado vs. Mayonnaise. Instead of slathering your bread with mayo, substitute slices of avocado or some guacamole. Avocados are high in omega 3 fatty acids, which help increase heart and brain function. They also help lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.
Whole Eggs vs. Egg Whites. So many people think that egg whites are the healthy option. Eggs are the perfect source of protein with 9 amino acids to help your body absorb calcium and build connective tissue. Eat the whole egg to get choline to help remove fat from the liver.
What are some healthy alternatives to your favorite snacks? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comment box below.
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