We all struggle with eating healthily. Oftentimes, it is not simply that we dislike healthy food but rather can’t resist the temptation of the unhealthy. Fast food burgers, pizza, delicious chocolate-covered cookies – these kinds of food surround us no matter where we go, whether we’re at the supermarket or just watching commercials on the TV. Resisting them takes a strong will and not many have enough determination to give it up. It’s not surprising that we often turn to unhealthy food whenever we are feeling sad or angry. That’s when our willpower is at its weakest.
If you aren’t ready to give up the typical unhealthy food just yet, that doesn’t mean that you can’t be eating a healthy diet. Not everyone can survive just by eating kale and fat-free yogurt. The simplest method to ‘tricking’ yourself into eating more healthy is switching to healthy versions of your favorite food. This means, for example, ordering a beef burger with extra vegetables instead of bacon. It might not seem like a big change but if you keep it up, your body will thank you for it. It is easier to give up a slice of bacon than it is to give up the whole burger itself.
Here are some ideas about turning unhealthy food into something healthy:
Search for healthy versions of products
This is probably the simplest one to implement. For example, next time you want to buy chocolate, opt for bitter chocolate with the highest cocoa percentage you can find rather than choosing milk chocolate. Real bitter chocolate is actually good for your body – in moderation, of course.
Many people try to improve their diet and food makers know it. You can find such products as healthy ramen noodles, healthy pasta sauces or healthy sausages. However, be aware that some of these products can sometimes be healthy only in the name. Always check the ingredients list to see what’s really inside. For recommendations, see the Brooke Roberts website.
Substitute
Many recipes can be modified to your liking so that you can substitute the unhealthy ingredients with something better. There are plenty available online as well.
Maybe you love Nutella but you know just how bad it is for your health so you feel bad eating it. Good, then now make your own but using avocados and cocoa. Zucchini brownies are a thing and they are delicious. Cauliflower pizza will make for a great party meal that doesn’t contain many calories. If you crave something more similar to a real pizza then make your own and put on top as many healthy ingredients as you can.
Sneak in healthy products
You can also try gradually sneaking in healthy products, like fruit and vegetables, into the food you usually cook. For example, when preparing mac and cheese, blend some pumpkin and/or carrots to add to the sauce. The consistency will be almost the same, the taste won’t change much and you will eat some healthy calories for a change. Blending veggies into a mush and adding them to other meals, such as pasta, is a great idea, especially if you have small children that won’t eat anything with vegetables in it.