Change up your kitchen game
Some simple tweaks in the kitchen can lead to some great results on the scale.
Sometimes it seems that the foods we love most are the worst ones for us. I am constantly trying to find out ways to make those “not so good for you” favorites into a healthier, just as yummy version, that everyone will like. Instead of a complete recipe overhaul, I often just make a simple swap for an easy, “better for you” version of the same dish.
Skip the Package- Instead of the sugar-laden instant oatmeal packets, make your own! With a container of plain instant oats, you can mix and match flavors to your hearts content. Grab some freeze dried strawberries or apples, throw in your favorite nuts, whatever! You choose the type of sugar to use, and limit the amount you put in there, and over time, you’ll need less and less for your healthier palate. Oh yeah, make a bunch in those little snack size resealable baggies so you’ve got breakfast on the fly!
Thin Crust Pizza- Let’s face it, Pizza is a guilty pleasure for most of us. Skip the delivery guy and make your own easily on whatever flatbread that fits your eating style. Low carb flats, Gluten-Free, Cauliflour Crust, and more. My favorite is Joeseph’s Lavash, and the whole thing is only 120 calories; about as much as one slice of a traditional crust. Pack tons of veggies and goodies on top, and indulge without the carb overload and belly bloat that usually comes with it.
Skip the Bread- I cannot even begin to describe my love affair with with Italian Hoagies. In fact, I ate one almost every single day in high school. Thank god for that teenage metabolism! I still crave the flavors of Genoa Salami, Ham and Provolone daily, but now I’ve found a way to enjoy them without the guilt. First, I grab a premade sub from the grocery, and a head of romaine hearts. I toss the roll out immediately. Next, I split the cold cuts into 4 portions, and roll them up in the lettuce leaves. Soooo delish!
Baked Egg Cups- These guys are grab and go warriors! I eat them as a quick fix breakfast, office lunch, post workout meal, or late night nosh. Super fast and easy to make, they reheat well and freeze great. They are a staple in my household, and just keeping them on hand assures that we all can eat well without planning ahead. Fix them up anyway you like, and soon you won’t be able to live without them. Check out my Baked Egg Cups Recipe, coming soon.
Crush Sugar Cravings- I call them “Mother Nature’s Cookie Dough” Medjool Dates. The natural sugar in them, combined with a great source of fiber will curb your sweet tooth without causing a huge spike in your blood sugar. Try the ones rolled in coconut flakes, with the bonus healthy fats to keep you satisfied. Just don’t eat the entire package- limit yourself to 2-3 only. I also use them with cashews as gluten/grain free crust for a delicious Blueberry and Mango dessert .