Healthy Food Swaps You Need to Try
By Sara Butler
There are some simple changes you can make to your diet that will almost instantly make a difference in your overall health. If you’re looking to get healthy and eat well, then you need to start swapping out the unhealthy stuff for a healthier version. Try some of these and see how much of a difference it can make for your health!
Use Olive Oil instead of Butter
Butter is not bad for you as has been previously thought, but it’s still a food that should be used in moderation due to its levels of saturated fat. If you use unsaturated fat such as olive oil it can make a big difference. Just remember that all fats are pretty high in calories, so using them sparingly will always be in your best interest.
Forget Refined Grains and Go for Whole Grains!
Refined carbohydrates just aren’t good for you. They are digested very fast and can wreak havoc on your blood sugar levels as well as your appetite, making you hungrier sooner than whole grains. White bread and sugar are refined carbohydrates you should try to limit in your diet. Whole grains are a better choice because they are not only more satisfying to eat, they also have been found to protect your heart from disease. So, reach for bulgur and brown rice the next time you need a grain to balance out your plate!
Make sure you look out for foods that are labeled as “multi-grain” because more often than not they are made from refined flour and aren’t actually sources of whole grains!
Get Rid of Salt by Adding Herbs!
Dried or fresh herbs can add a lot of flavor to a dish – so much flavor you won’t be missing the added salt! You need salt in order to keep your body healthy, but too much salt can actually have a negative impact on your overall health. Americans should get 2,300 mg of salt per day, which is only about a teaspoon. You can easily get rid of salt in your diet by either adding your own combination of dried or fresh herbs and spices or buying pre-made mixtures at the store labeled as salt-free. Also, don’t add salt to food while you’re cooking it, you’ll get more bang for your taste bud buck by adding it right before you eat.
Try some of these swaps and see how much better you feel!