HEALTH

You Love: Mayo

Instead Try: Avocados

It’s hard to resist the creamy richness of mayonnaise…until you realize that you can get the same effect (and even better taste) with fresh avocados! You’ll save tons of sodium, cholesterol, saturated fat, and calories while adding fiber and potassium to your snack or sammie. For even more flavor, mash up the superfood with some lime, cilantro, and tomatoes for a great-for-you guac.

You Love: Maple syrup

Instead Try: Peanut butter

Just two ounces of pancake syrup contains 36 grams of sugar- that’s like eating two full candy bars! Boost your breakfast by topping your faves with peanut butter. It’s not exactly a health food, but PB is a sweet treat that gives ya a nice dose of healthy fats and vitamins. Opt for the crunchy kind to really indulge!

You Love: Ketchup

Instead Try: Fresh tomatoes, salsa or hot sauce

What’s the catch with Ketchup? Surprisingly, sugar! Even worse, America’s favorite sauce barely has any nutritious vitamins and minerals that your body needs. But fresh tomatoes, salsa, or even hot sauce can all take ketchup’s place. Your bod will thank you (and so will your taste buds).

You Love: Jam

Instead Try: Fresh fruit

Toast, waffles, sammies…so many foods go perfectly with fruity sweetness. But jams and jellys are among the sauces slipping you unnecessary sugars. Try fresh fruit instead. Or try heating up your fave fruits with a pinch of sugar for your own, healthier version of the sweet sauce.

You Love: Creamy salad dressings

Instead Try: Oil & vinegar

Whether you’re dressing your burger or dipping fresh veggies, creamy salad dressings are go-to food toppers. But just because they’ve got “salad” in the name, doesn’t mean they’re healthy! In fact, most dressings are super high in fat, calories, and even sugar. Just one serving of Ranch has about a quarter of your recommended daily fat intake- and that’s a lot for a little bit of sauce. So skip the thick and go for a lighter, just as delish alternative. Mix up some oil, vinegar and your fave spices—yum!

Which topping swap are you going to try? Share in the comments below!  

by Julie Harans | 2/1/2016