You don’t have to sacrifice your favourite snacks entirely when trying lose weight or become healthier. Nature’s candy is real and the health benefits are good. Studies show that adding more natural elements to your diet can improve both mental and physical health. They also help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Read below to discover some food-swap ideas that’ll keep your sweet-tooth satisfied.
Dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate
Dark chocolate has various health benefits and it’s delicious, so what could be better? It contains multitudes of antioxidants, it can improve blood flow and blood pressure, it’s high in nutrients, and it can improve brain function. Milk chocolate is filled with processed sugar which can lead to weight gain and poor health. Next time you reach for that bag of M&M’s, go for some dark chocolate instead. It’ll leave you feeling healthy and satisfied.
Porridge instead of cereal
Cereal can taste delicious, but most household brands are filled with sugar and unhealthy additives. Cereal doesn’t typically keep you satisfied throughout the morning, and can cause a sugar-rush, making you even more tired by the end of the day. Porridge is protein packed and filling. Your bowl of porridge doesn’t have to be strictly oats and milk. Add berries, honey, a dash of cinnamon, chia seeds and yogurt. This brings to life and adds zest and colour to your bowl of oats and it’s the perfect balanced breakfast.
Tea instead of energy drinks
Energy drinks contain high sugar and chemical contents which can cause an increase in anxiety, digestion problems and even kidney stones. If you need a mid-day pick-me-up, opt for a green or oolong tea. These teas contain a natural form of caffeine without the loads of sugar and chemicals on the side. They also offer various health benefits such as improved digestion, better sleep, and increased immunity.
Fresh fruit instead of sweets
As someone with a sweet tooth, I understand how difficult it can be to cut out sweets completely. Luckily, we don’t have to. Fruit is a natural source of sugar that’ll cure your sweet tooth immediately. When you eat sweets such as chocolate, your body reacts negatively after the immediate sugar rush. It makes you tired, causes your stomach to feel unsettled, and it can even cause your skin to break-out. By eating fruit, you satisfy the mental desire for sugar, without making your body pay for it later. Fruit also has various health benefits, such as increasing immunity, and reducing the risk of developing heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Try swapping sweets for fruits and notice how much better you’ll feel both mentally and physically.
