I don't know when I became so interested in food nutrition, but it has become one of my favorite things to learn about. True nutrition doesn't come from how many calories are in a food or drink. True nutrition is in the actual ingredients. By that, I mean a serving size of a healthy food or drink could technically have more calories than a serving size of an unhealthy food. You're probably thinking, "Well duh, Rebecca."
Yet, when it comes to making decisions at the grocery store, you may still be picking the unhealthy option. Foods I have noticed that are "supposed" to be healthy and are too easily grabbed include peanut or almond butter, energy or protein bars, yogurt, holiday drinks from Starbs and trail mixes.
Now you're thinking I'm the wacko that crowds the aisles at the grocery store because I'm standing there looking at the nutrition label. And, you're right.
Here are some alternatives to make your pantry a little healthier:
1. Kirkland Almond Butter
I would confidently say that majority of peanut or almond butters have added ingredients besides the actual roasted nut. For example, Jif Creamy Peanut Butter contains molasses, fully hydrogenated vegetable oils, mono and diglycerides and salt. On the other hand, Kirkland Almond Butter contains only roasted almonds.
2. LaraBars
Beware when you see a protein bar advertising its fantastic amount of protein. Don't fall for it like I did for many years. I feel like the best example here is the infamous ClifBar. Don't get me wrong, a ClifBar is not the worst choice when it comes to reaching for an energy bar, especially when you're on a 15-mile hike. What I am saying is there may be a better option when it comes to choosing a bar with less added sugar. Cue, the LaraBar. These bars have sometimes as little as three to six healthy ingredients, and the best thing is...they're not disgusting!
3. FAGE yogurt
Just skip the Yoplait. Sure, they have all the fun flavors, but that's because they use cornstarch and sugar to get there. Next time, look for Fage. Although yogurt is tricky and usually contains added sugars, you can find healthier options. The key to reading nutrition labels? Look at the ingredients listed, and whatever the first few ingredients are - that's what consumes most of it. Mind blown.
4. Make your own PSL.
You guys had to know this was coming. Pumpkin spice lattes are to die for; I love them just as much as the next person. BUT, a grande PSL made with whole milk and whipped cream contains 420 calories, 18 grams of fat and 52 grams of carbs.
Now you're really thinking, "Oh great, she's one of those people." I promise I'm not crazy, I enjoy a PSL from time to time, but when I started wanting one every day, I learned how to make my own. I found this great recipe which makes for an alternative when wanting to cut calories and save money!
Also, it's still 80 degrees in Pullman. It just doesn't feel right.
5. Applesauce pouches.
You guys, this is the best creation ever. Everyone needs a quick something they can grab while running out the door, and applesauce pouches are IT. They don't taste like baby food, you just have to get past the part where it looks like baby food. These are a good alternative to trail mix, which usually contains some kind of chocolate or the nuts being doused in salt.
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