Seven healthy alternatives to junk food

Healthy Snacks

Junk food is packed with preservatives, additives, salts and trans fats. These can take a toll on your health if you make junk a part of your daily diet. Fresh and naturally grown foods are much better for you. These are high in vitamins and minerals. Reaching out for the right foods when you are hungry can keep your energy levels high throughout the day and not pile on extra pounds. Here is a list of healthy snacks you can gorge on:

1. Fruits and Vegetables

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, fruits and vegetables make a filling snack. Some excellent choices are celery, eggplant, broccoli, beans, strawberries, apples, melons, etc. You can steam, stir fry, or sauté vegetables or make a wholesome pie. Stewed fruits are also very yummy.

2. Nuts, Seeds and Dates

These can give you an energy kick almost instantly. Almonds, pistachios and walnuts have healthy oils in them. Also, sunflower and pumpkin seeds are really good for you. You can also add a sprinkling of these on your salads and breads.

3. Lean meats

Anyone would drool over meats with whole grain breads and low fat dips. Make meaty salads by adding ingredients like cheese, cucumber, lettuce, cherry tomatoes, pasta, etc. Go for oily fish, chicken and turkey as they are low in fat. You can sauté, grill, roast or bake meats. Eggs are extremely nutritious; have them boiled, scrambled, poached, etc.

4. Whole Grains and Legumes

Instead of reaching out for burgers, fries and pizzas, satiate your carb cravings with whole grains, legumes and beans. Baked or boiled beans make an excellent nibble. Pep up boiled corn and legumes with a dash of lime juice or spices. Rolls, pastas, pitas, tortillas, and muffins made from whole grains are nutritious and will keep hunger at bay for long hours. Cereals like oats, muesli, and wheat flakes are also healthful.

5. Yogurt and cheese

Defamed by their fattening counterparts, these are can be nutritious and healthy if you go for the low fat versions. Low fat and flavored yogurts are easily available in markets and kiosks. You can prepare fresh yogurt at home from low fat milk and season it with honey, herbs, salt or sugar. A cube of cheese gives can give you an energy boost; you can even have sliced cheese with fresh fruits.

6. Fresh Juices and Shakes

Stay away from the caffeine loaded colas and sugary drinks. Opt for low fat milk or freshly squeezed juice. Add fresh fruits, coffee, chocolate, and honey with milk to prepare creamy smoothies. You can make fresh juice from fruits as well as vegetables. Celery and tomato, pineapple and sweet lime, gourd and spinach juices are extremely healthy.

7. Soups and Broths

Vegetables, legumes, beans, milk, and meat can be used to make soups and broths. Cabbage soup helps to shed pounds. Dehydrates beans soups are a light and airy snack. Tomato, split pea, corn and chicken, minestrone, and pumpkin are some other good for you soups. Soups can be spiced up, herbed or doused with sauces to add flavor.

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