Every single one of us has a go-to comfort food, whether it be hot chips, cookies, bread, or perhaps even a comfort drink like fizzy or wine.
If you’re anything like me and love treats but want to stay healthy, there’s good news, many comfort foods have healthy and delicious alternatives.
I’m not saying ditch the doughnuts or the salt and vinegar chips, but instead opt for the below healthy alternatives here and there.
Dark chocolate
Emphasis on the dark. Chocolate is a top pick comfort food for a reason, the creamy texture and sugary goodness puts a smile on anyone’s dial.
Dark chocolate, and I’m talking 70 percent or above, is actually recommended as part of a healthy diet and can be consumed in moderation every day. Made from the seed of the cocoa tree, dark chocolate is one of the best sources of antioxidants in the world. It can also improve brain function and lower the risk of heart disease.
Beef Jerky or Biltong
If you’re a meat-eater like myself, this is the perfect snack to give you that extra source of energy throughout the day. High in protein and a great source of iron, jerky can be an alternative to your chicken flavoured chips and will even keep you fuller for longer.
Naturally flavoured water
Coming from the world’s biggest cola fanatic, I highly recommend ditching the fizzy for any flavoured water, or just water itself. To some, water is boring and the thought of drinking the recommended two and a half litres a day is just not possible, however water is one of the most important things for our bodies to consume, so why don’t we spice it up a bit?
I for one much prefer sparkling water over still, but I also love adding a few slices of lemon to warm tap water or even a green tea bag into my water bottle. Drinking lemon water every morning can have multiple benefits and tastes great. It’s a good source of vitamin c, it supports weight loss, improves skin, aids digestion and even freshens your breath.
Popcorn
Popcorn is great because it is a typical comfort snack, however it is also quite healthy, so there’s no need for an alternative. Make sure you aren’t buying pre-popped popcorn that is covered in sugar, instead go for the air popped and lightly seasoned variety.
Adding a few tablespoons of grass-fed butter on top will also keep you fuller for longer as butter is high in fat and a rich source of several vitamins.
Eggs
Scrambled, boiled, poached or fried, cook yourself some eggs as they are another high protein snack that help keep your appetite and cravings in check. They also contain 11 vitamins and minerals, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. They take around five minutes to cook, and the benefits are endless. I love to have a stash of boiled eggs in my fridge for when I have little time to cook.
