HEALTH

Let's be honest here, girls: Snacking is *everything.* Who doesn't love to chill out and munch on a delish treat every once in awhile? The key words there, though, are "every once in awhile." When you snack too much on the wrong thing (ahem, salty and sugary deliciousness), you're not giving your body the nutrients it needs to succeed. The fix? Healthy and yummy alternatives to your fave junk food. We've got alts for cookies, ice cream and even mozzarella sticks. Peep 'em below, but try not to drool.

If you're choc-obsessed, try...

Frozen dark chocolate bananas. If you just can't seem to beat your chocolate craving, then definitely give this a go. Bananas are an excellent source of vitamins C and B6, and are also packed with fiber and potassium. To make, peel a banana, cut into two equal halves, insert a popsicle stick into one end and freeze. Once solid, take out and dip in melted dark chocolate. While the chocolate’s still wet, roll in whatever topping you desire—nuts, coconut flakes or maybe even sprinkles!

If you like ice cream, try...

Yogurt parfait. Although yogurt may not seem like the most appealing alternative, what's great about this fruity treat is that there are so many flavors to choose from—ranging from simpler ones like plain strawberry to more complex like vanilla chocolate chunk. Two brands we recommend are Yoplait and Chobani. Aside from the actual taste, yogurt eaters also get an equivalent of animal protein (about 9 grams per 6-ounce serving), plus calcium, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, potassium and magnesium. You can also add in delicious healthy toppings like granola or berries, or even some shaved chocolate if you must!

If you like cookies, try...

Animal crackers. Even though you're not a little kid anymore, this cute snack will nix the calories and fat but still satisfy your need for something sweet and crunchy. A good-sized handful (about 16 crackers) has just about 120 calories and 7g of sugar. Who knew!

If you're into potato chips, try...

Kale chips. This crunchy alternative strays pretty far from the classic potato chip, but you won't be missing out on much. You might be thinking ew right now, but don't knock 'em until you've tried 'em!

If you're a mozz-stick lover, try...

Baked Onion Rings. Homemade baked onion rings are a surefire way to satisfy your craving for deep-fried foods. To make, you'll need to grab some all-purpose flour, panko bread crumbs, eggs, parmesan and salt and pepper. Then...
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, panko and parmesan.
3. Working in batches, dredge onion rings in flour mixture, dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture, pressing to coat.
4. Spread onion rings in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place into oven and bake until golden brown and crispy, about 20-25 minutes.

What are your fave healthy alternatives to junk foods?

Photo credit: The Happy Vegan Belly, The Domestic Geek, Food Spotting, Martha Stewart, CapitalFM

by Healthy junk food alternatives | 9/8/2016