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Looking for a Healthy, Tasty Snack? Banana Split!

By Paul Rothbart

Eating well is part of a healthy lifestyle, but if you're like me, a little dessert now and then is essential. Man does not live on oatmeal and alfalfa sprouts alone. Fortunately, there are snacks that can straddle the divide between good nutrition and flavorful delight. Believe it or not, one of these is the banana split.

The Base: A Banana

This classic treat is built on a nutritious fruit. It is common knowledge that bananas are a great source of potassium, but they are also rich in Vitamins B6 and C. Manganese is another benefit the banana provides as well as helping to keep blood sugar levels balanced. Bananas are also a good way to get much needed fiber. 

Health Substitutions for Ice Cream

A banana split is thought of as an ice cream dessert, but it doesn't have to be. Frozen yogurt serves the same function with fewer calories, less fat and more nutrition. Even low fat ice cream will give you great taste with better nutrition. All of your favorite flavors will still be available.

Choosing Healthy Toppings

There is quite a bit of flexibility to a good banana split. The addition of other fruits will add vitamins and antioxidants. Pineapple chunks are a common topping. A serving of this tropical fruit will provide more than the daily recommended allowance of Vitamin C. Strawberries are another popular option and contain Vitamin C, manganese, and Vitamin B9 (folate) which is beneficial to tissue growth and cell function. Consider blueberries. Their small size and great taste make them perfectly suited for a topping. Among other nutrients, they are rich in Vitamin K and the best of the antioxidants. Blueberries are also very low in calories.

Hot fudge and heavy chocolate syrups are standard on the typical banana split, but there are alternatives that will cut the calories. Try a shell made from peanut butter, a delicious and very nutritious food. It may sound crazy, but try a little olive oil. It tastes much better than it sounds.

Then there are the nuts. Pecans, cashews, walnuts, even crushed peanuts are all delicious and very healthy. These crunchy toppings contain fiber, Vitamin E, and magnesium. For a boost to cholesterol and heart health, try pistachios. If you prefer almonds, they provide these same health benefits.

Proper nutrition and good eating habits are vital to our physical and mental health. But it doesn't have to preclude indulging in a little sweetness. Whip up a healthy variation of the classic banana split and enjoy a guilt-free, yummy dessert.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Edmond, Okla.

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