Giving up the foods you love can be a struggle. Do you crave something sugary in the morning? Do you love veggies topped with melted butter? You can still achieve your nutrition goals. Just put a heart-healthy twist on your favorite dishes.
It’s tempting to have a sweet treat in the morning. Luckily, there are delicious ways to reduce your sugar intake. Instead of instant oatmeal with syrup, try Easy Overnight Oats with berries and chia seeds. Fruit-flavored juices and coffee with heavy cream contain sugar, preservatives, and saturated fats. Fruit juice made with 100% real fruit with pulp for fiber and coffee with skim milk are healthy options.
Put a nutritious twist on a lunch classic. Try pasta, like this Beef Bolognese, with wheat noodles. They have more fiber than white noodles. Jarred tomato sauce can be full of salt, sugar, and preservatives. Choose a jar of low-sodium sauce. Fill half of your plate with a salad dressed with lemon juice instead of a bottled dressing for a lighter option. Do you like a fizzy drink with your meal? Skip diet soda and sip on sparkling water.
Chicken and potatoes don’t have to be off the menu. Trade fried chicken––and its saturated fat––for lean, grilled chicken breast. Load a sweet potato with Greek yogurt, beans, and pumpkin seeds for a protein-packed swap of the usual loaded baked potato. Even your veggie can get an upgrade. Sauté broccoli in olive oil, instead of adding butter.
Want to enjoy other foods you love and stick to your goals? Try more recipes from the MOBE Kitchen.
Boost your mind and body with personalized meal planning tips, food swap suggestions, and more from a MOBE Guide.