3 Smart Alternatives to Your Favorite Indulgences

Posted by Dr. Della Parker     on January 29, 2018

For many Portlanders, starting the year right may have meant making lifestyle changes that included a change in their eating habits. Lifestyle changes are challenging, and when they involve the foods you eat often, indulgences like fast food, high sodium snacks, and sugary beverages, they can be terrifically hard to follow through with. We love what we love, and it can feel impossible to let go of the things we love, even when they pose an immediate threat to our health. We get it, we really do, and while occasional indulgences are obligatory, we think these healthy swaps can help kick at least a few cravings to the curb.

Swap potato chips for pita or hummus chips. As far as mindless munching goes you could do worse, and these snacks contain far less sodium than supermarket potato chips—plus they can really stand up to a creamy yogurt or hummus dip.

Swap milk chocolate for dark. Dark chocolate is a well-established superfood, and while the bitter flavor can be an acquired taste, it may be worth your time to acquire it. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, polyphenols, flavonols, and antioxidants and has even been shown to boost heart and brain health.

Swap ice cream for frozen yogurt. Frozen yogurt itself is still an indulgence, but it’s an indulgence that offers probiotics and tempting fresh fruit toppings.

Make you and your family’s physical health a priority this year. See Dr. Della Parker for a free consultation or call 503-344-6631.