Maintaining a healthy diet is often difficult for people, especially when living a busy lifestyle. Being a college student, I can definitely relate. I struggled for a long time to discipline myself enough to eat healthier, resist pizza, and work out regularly. Luckily, my roommate and dear friend Hannah is going to school to be a health coach and personal trainer. After many failed attempts at trying to kick my bad dietary habits, I am ready to make a change. However, I am clueless. Hannah has given me loads of advice and guidance/support as I take these steps and I couldn't thank her more. I realized that buying ramen noodles and pizza rolls was no longer going to cut it, so I asked Hannah for some of her wisdom regarding grocery shopping. There's A LOT of things that go into a healthy meal plan, but here are her personal favorite items that she always finds on her grocery lists. I included a quote from Hannah herself underneath each item! Pairing these with other healthy foods of your choosing could help you make the change you hope to see in yourself.
1. Almond Milk
Almond milk is lower in calories, it's free of cholesterol, saturated fat, and is naturally lactose free.
"I like to put it in my smoothies, protein shakes, and coffee because it gives it the right consistency without making me feel guilty. It is also a healthier alternative to coffee creamers and sweeteners. Almond milk adds more flavor than water would as well."
2. Natural Peanut Butter
Natural Peanut Butter is lower in sodium, saturated fats, sugars, and higher in protein than regular peanut butter.
"I really love peanut butter, and to completely get rid of it isn't an option for me. So I like to eat natural instead of regular because it doesn't have unnecessary sugars but still satisfies my cravings."
3. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has nearly double the protein content, half the sodium, and half the carbohydrates of regular yogurts. Adding sweeteners will increase the carbs, but using natural sweeteners is a better alternative if you can't eat the yogurt by itself. It's important to buy the nonfat varieties, because regular Greek yogurt has about three times the saturated fat of regular yogurt.
"I like to add 1 packet of Truvia, and 1 tbsp of sugar-free jello pudding. I prefer chocolate, but any flavor would work. It makes for a great snack that is high in protein and low in sugar!"
4. Hummus
Hummus is a great alternative for other dips such as Ranch Dressing. Ranch is high in fats and sodium, and overall is not the best option if you're seeking nutrition benefits. Hummus is low calorie and the fats in hummus mainly come from the olive oil and the sesame paste, which are healthier fats. Hummus is also made from chickpeas which has high fiber content. Fiber makes you feel more full, and can prevent overeating.
"I like to get Oasis brand Hummus from HyVee, and I generally eat it with vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, snap peas, or celery. It makes them more enjoyable if you don't like them plain, and it's a better option than Ranch."
5. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are healthier carbs, contain natural sugars, and fill you up.
"I like to slice them up, sprinkle on some olive oil, and add in cinnamon. I usually grill them, but you can also put them in the oven. Then I eat them."
