Ideas for food substitutes
Here are 5 suggestions to consider for this holiday season. A general rule of thumb is to think about sugar and fat contents when choosing ingredients. Be aware of limiting certain choices like eggnog and fruit cakes which may consume all the daily sugar or fat requirements.
1) Creamers
Look for non-fat or low-fat creamers instead of heavy cream. Be sure to check the sugar content of non-dairy coffee creamers and flavored creamers which typically contain lots of sugar and additives. Using a whole milk is also a better alternative to creamers as well as milk alternatives like almond, coconut, or oat milk.
2) Eggs
Eggs are generally a great choice. Whites are perfect for whipping into creams or meringues and the yokes are filled with vitamins and Omega-3 fats. For diabetics or those who have high cholesterol, limiting egg consumption to a few times per week is better than daily. Talk to your physician if you have specific chronic health conditions.
3) Bread
While eating certain breads and carbohydrates can be part of a healthy, balanced diet, consuming highly processed flour can be a hidden source of calories and carbohydrates. When possible, choose wheat bread over white bread and read ingredients for high fructose corn syrup. An English muffin is a better choice than bagels.
4) Avocados
Avocados are a versatile tasty food that can be eaten alone or used in recipes. When trying to avoid sweet jellies or jams, avocados can be spread on toast or used in salads.
5. Yogurt
Plain yogurt is a good substitute for richer ingredients like sour cream and mayonnaise. When making holiday dips or casseroles, think about yogurt.
More Healthy Tips
Holiday tables are usually packed with overloaded platters and assorted dishes. Even if every cook in the house has chosen healthy food substitutes for the holidays, the rich dishes and desserts can be tempting. Here are few more healthy tips to help you make the holidays healthy and happy.
- Watch portions, leaving second helpings on the plate
- Stay active
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid skipping meals
Sources:
Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.