Eat Well

Clean Eating Is For You: Simple Substitutions For Eating Well
Paleo is the new fad, and it’s not all bad! If you’re one of those individuals who has trouble sticking to a diet – then this post is for you. Switching your entire menu to strange, new foods is not always going to work for you. Other options, like calorie cutting, don’t always pan out either. Instead of focusing on the calorie number, focus on the nutrients behind those calories. For a different approach to your happy, healthy pursuits, try substituting out some of the less healthy fillers in your menu for nutritious options.

Butter

A cook’s best friend seems to be butter, but it’s the worst option for you! Coconut oil is a fantastic, and healthy, option for sautéing and cooking vegetables and meats. It works well with higher temperatures, unlike some oils. Avocado oil is another flavorful option. No need for those classic butter substitutes; opt for the natural oils that will give you the texture and flavor you desire, while adding benefits you didn’t even know you needed.

Potato

Baked potato, hash browns, fries, scalloped and mashed are all some pretty delicious favorites. Instead of eliminating this ingredient, substitute it for sweet potatoes. This vegetable is loaded with Vitamin A, giving you tremendous benefits. Additionally, it adds a new and delicious flavor to old favorites.

Cereal

Rather than waking up earlier to prepare elaborate healthy meals that take a lot of prep time, simply change up the cereal you consume! Check your labels carefully, though, as many boxes contain that “healthy” label while stuffing the contents with sugar. For example, Shredded Wheat, Cheerios, and Fiber One are better options than Raisin Bran, Life, or Smart Start.

Bread

If you are looking to cut out your gluten, and don’t want to spend twice as much on gluten-free bread, try replacing your sandwich ends with lettuce instead! Try not to reach for a tortilla, and simply wrap up that turkey and cheese with this leafy green vegetable. You’re not just cutting out gluten, you will be reducing caloric and sugar intake as well!

Snacks

Snacks are, by far, the hardest group of food to eliminate – so don’t! Instead of a bag of chips, grab a handful of almonds. Almonds are high in calories, but also in the nutrients needed to give you energy to get through the 3 PM slump. An apple, orange, or even carrots are all better options than anything you’ll find in a vending machine. No matter how many times the word “healthy” is used on the package, it isn’t as healthy as fresh fruits, vegetables, or nuts. Unsalted sunflower seeds are another great snack, especially for those prone to mindless munching. Keep your mouth busy with nutritious options whenever possible.

This list is just a sampling of options. Get creative and have fun with your menu instead of getting bogged down by a whole new recipe and ingredient system. Looking for more specific help with your nutrition? Check out what Hitch Fit can do for you. We take a whole-body approach that includes exercise, encouragement, and eating habits.