When hungry and in a hurry, it is difficult to pass up the quick, inexpensive options found at fast food restaurants or in vending machines. However, many of the food choices available at fast food joints or in vending machines are highly processed and unhealthy. When pressed for time, remember these quick and healthy options for filling up without compromising your good health.
Meat
Many healthy food alternatives to high-fat meat are available and don't require you to eliminate meat from your diet. By substituting high-fat meat products such as beef, ham, sausage and bacon with leaner meat products such as chicken, fish, turkey bacon or even lean beef, you will reduce the fat and calorie content of your meal. Additionally, there are also meat replacement products available for vegetarians that are made with soy products and are a healthy meat alternative. If protein is what you are interested in obtaining, other healthy options also include lentils, beans, tofu or whey protein.
Healthy Carbohydrates
Choosing healthy whole-grain carbohydrates are an easy alternative to refined carbohydrates. Easily digested refined carbohydrates from white bread, white rice and other refined grains, pastries, sugar-filled soda and other highly processed foods may contribute to weight gain, interfere with weight loss, and promote diabetes and heart disease, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Instead, choose whole-grain breads and pastas, brown rice, oatmeal, fresh fruits and vegetables, and drink water or unsweetened tea instead of sodas.
Crunchy Snacks
Everybody gets the craving for a salty or crunchy snack every now and then. Keep pre-cut vegetables, such as celery or carrots, on hand to munch on, instead of turning to the vending machine for a bag of chips. Popcorn is also an excellent alternative to chips. To make popcorn healthier, prepare it on the stove with canola oil instead of butter and season with minimal amounts of sea salt and pepper. People who consume diets with monounsaturated fats like olive or canola oil tend to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, the Help Guide websites explains. Additionally, reducing your salt intake can help to lower blood pressure and reduce your risk for heart disease.
Sweet Snacks
When craving a sweet snack, fresh fruit is always the best alternative. Bananas, apples and oranges are very quick, healthy options. When wanting a chocolate treat, or a milk shake, try substituting a healthy protein shake instead. Mix the whey protein with either water or skim milk and combine with fresh fruit or natural peanut butter for a quick, high-protein healthy treat.
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