8 Cheat Foods That Won't Ruin Your Diet
8 Cheat Foods That Won't Ruin Your Diet
Go ahead and indulge — they may seem sinful but they're secretly healthy.
Popcorn
Popcorn is high-volume for relatively low-calories, which means you can eat more for less! Seriously, a three cup serving only packs about 150 calories. For a flavor — and health — boost, add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast (which is full of B vitamins and protein) for a cheesy flavor.
Chocolate
A one-ounce serving of chocolate per day has been linked with not only reducing a whole host of chronic diseases, but also general improvement in emotional well-being — and lower BMI! Don't worry about only eating "dark" or "70% cacao." You're better off sticking with a 150 cal portion of whatever you like best and indulging from there.
Burritos and Fajitas
Yes, you read that right. A deconstructed burrito is basically just a more delicious salad: lettuce, black beans, avocado, cheese, and salsa. For low calories and maximum flavor, order chicken, steak, or shrimp fajitas with a double order of veggies. Skip the rice and don't double-up on the beans (yes, they're good for you, but calories rack up quickly). Use two corn tortillas, and ask for extra salsa on the side.
Real Cream in Your Coffee
Go ahead, use half-and-half in your daily cup of Joe. And take the artificial coffee creamer out of your fridge for good — this partially hydrogenated staple is a hazard to your cholesterol levels. You're better off with 2 tablespoons of the real deal, and adding your own spices for flavor. (My obsession? Pumpkin pie spice — not sugary syrup!)
Gelato
Compared to ice cream, gelato — made with real milk instead of cream — has about 30% fewer calories per serving. And what you eat is more satisfying and flavorful because gelato is denser and typically served at a warmer temperature than ice cream. To control calories, stick to a 1/2 cup portion and basic (but delicious!) flavors without nuts, fudge, or cake bits.
Pizza
Topped with unlimited veggies, DIY pita pizzas can slice calories in half. Another option? Use a 100% whole-grain English muffin and add 1/4 cup tomato sauce, one piece of part skim string cheese, and veggies. Or, go for the classic: New York-style pizza with extra veggies, no meat, and pair with a side-salad to maximize fiber — and fullness!
Veggie Chips
From sweet potato, carrot, or yuca fries to parsnip, beet root, or kale chips, we've found a way to turn most root veggies into a crunchy treat. Not only do these homemade savory snacks give you a hearty health boost, you can eat way more of them without derailing your diet. It's also a great way to get kids to eat their vegetables. Try seasoning with sea salt, a drizzle of olive oil, and turmeric or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Pistachios
Even though pistachios are higher in calories, plenty of research supports eating these instead of pretzels when you snack. Why? De-shelling makes you more likely to eat less. Plus, the healthy fat and protein keeps you fuller longer, and they're packed with fiber, magnesium, and potassium. And the fact that one ounce is about 50 pistachios makes it feel like a major indulgence!
Pizza? Ice Cream? Yep!