3 Foods to Eat Instead of Chips
By Genevieve Cunningham
Chips are one of those foods that we all love. They're crunchy and salty and oh so satisfying. Unfortunately, they're also oh so bad for us. They're high in calorie and low in nutritional value. And they're addictive. You definitely can't stop after only one, and this leads many people to overdo it on the salty goodness. But how can you stop when they're so good, right? If you're interested in breaking the chip addiction in order to improve your diet and health, take a look at these other options to try in your life instead.
Carrot Strips and Ranch
It might not sound as appealing as chips, but choosing carrots allows you to get the crunchy texture without the poor nutrition. And adding a side of Ranch dressing for dipping simply adds the flavor that you need to make it delicious. Will this take some getting used to? Of course. But many find this option palatable, and you'll be glad you made the switch when the weight begins to drop.
Kale Chips
If you simply must have chips, try making a healthier option. Take some kale, spread it on a cookie sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and bake. When they come out of the oven, they'll be salty and crunchy, which helps satisfy the chip craving. But on the plus side, you'll be getting a fraction of the calories and a huge boost in nutritional goodness. This will also take a little getting used to, but it helps satisfy the craving without ruining your diet.
Nuts
Nuts aren't chips. They're not even close. So why add them to the list? Because they're salty, crunchy, and make a great side to many different kinds of dishes. Nuts also provide your body with healthy fats, protein, and other nutrients depending on the specific kind of nut. The key with this option is to be sparing. Nuts can be high in calories, so eat sparingly to get the good without bringing the bad.
Chips aren't good for you. We like to ignore the nutritional value and enjoy them anyway, but eating too many can definitely be detrimental to your health -- and especially your weight! If you would like to cut the addiction to chips, just use these alternatives. You'll have to be open minded, patient, and ready to try new things, but with some practice, you can learn to love a new side and leave the chips behind for good.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Aliso Viejo, Calif.