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Healthy junk food alternatives to feed all your cravings

BethAnn Mayer
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Eating a balanced, healthy diet keeps your body running like a well-oiled machine. You wake up feeling well-rested, have more energy throughout the day, and enjoy the aesthetic benefits of glowing skin and bouncy hair. But sometimes, junk food is just too good to resist.

If you can’t help yourself from a bag of chips every once in a while, don’t beat yourself up. Indulging in your favorite food can relieve stress and improve your mood, but consuming too many foods high in fats, oils, and carbohydrates can take a toll on your body. Luckily, there are healthy alternatives for your cravings that will satisfy your hunger and keep you on track to meet your health goals.

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Good: Fage Total Yogurt Instead of Ice Cream

No matter what the thermometer says, ice cream is always in season. However, if you’re trying to ditch the sweets, opt for Greek yogurt instead. Unlike regular yogurts, Greek yogurt is thick and creamy, so it tastes more like a dessert than the other kinds. Yogurt brand Fage boasts some of the creamiest yogurts in the dairy aisle, and the plain, non-fat version has all the natural sweetness without any added sugar. Looking to take it up a notch? Stir in some bananas, berries, and honey for a dreamy parfait. As a bonus, Greek yogurt contains 15 grams of muscle-strengthening protein to fuel your workouts and give you enough energy to seize the day.

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Better: LaCroix Instead of Soda

Let’s be real: Soda is convenient. It’s at every drive-thru, at the front of the grocery store checkout, and in just about every vending machine. Though it may taste great, a 12 oz. can of Coke contains a whopping 36 grams of sugar. To put that in perspective, consider that the American Heart Association suggests limiting sugar to 24 to 36 grams per day. If you’re craving a little fizz and flavor, opt for a can of LaCroix. This seltzer comes in various creative flavors, from limoncello to hibiscus, as well as the classic flavors like lemon, lime, and orange that make great alternatives to your favorite sodas. With no artificial sweeteners, sodium, or calories, LaCroix is the perfect alternative to your favorite sugar-filled soft drinks.

healthy pizza on wood table

Best: Banza Plain Crust Pizza

Getting ready for a family pizza night? Try Banza’s chickpea pizza crust for a gluten-free, high protein pie. A traditional pizza crust is typically made with enriched wheat, and these simple carbs break down quickly, leaving you hungry soon after you finish your last bite. People who swear by Banza say it tastes better than the real deal, so you won’t even feel like you’re missing out on your favorite crust.

Though they can be a nice treat, candies, soft drinks, and pizza all typically contain a ton of added sugar and simple carbs that will leave you feeling tired and hungry just a few hours after indulging. If you know where to look, you can find great-tasting, healthy alternatives to junk foods that make eating healthier pretty sweet. Try to stick with these alternatives as much as possible, but if you’re truly craving those curly fries, keep in mind that indulging is more than okay in moderation.

BlissMark provides information regarding health, wellness, and beauty. The information within this article is not intended to be medical advice. Before starting any diet or exercise routine, consult your physician. If you don’t have a primary care physician, the United States Health & Human Services department has a free online tool that can help you locate a clinic in your area. We are not medical professionals, have not verified or vetted any programs, and in no way intend our content to be anything more than informative and inspiring.

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BethAnn Mayer
BethAnn Mayer
Contributor
Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
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