Eat this Instead of That

Thursday, July 16, 2020

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Year after year it happens; though this year it seemed as though the barrage of flash diets, new workout routines, mantras of caring for yourself coming over the social and news feeds has been at an all-time high. With all of us falling into the suckers slope that it's something we can easily do if we just cared about ourselves.

Living in a house of foodies the thought of us purely giving up pasta, dairy or whatever other delicious item seemed laughable at best. Add on top, the playoffs and cabin fever get-togethers our lifestyle is a diet train wreck waiting to happen. Instead of irrationally declaring that we are starting a new diet, with all new habits, we are simply going to start small.

It’s so easy to get stuck in the same old pattern at the grocery. So while we have cleansed the house of the cookies and all other temptations, we decided it was time to replace them with just as tasty replacements. With the hope, this trends us to a healthier lifestyle. Now, this wouldn't be a food blog without us attempting to create these treats but we have also thrown up links to alternatives we have tested and believe great for everyone who is on the go; which is everyone.

Breakast

Jammy Eggs Instead of Bagels

I have always enjoyed an Everything bagel and smear with the occasional smoked salmon. Though these days, I've removed the bagel along with the smear for a jammy egg. Replacing the carbs for protein and using the Everything But The Bagel Seasoning to bring it all home.

Overnight Oats Instead of Cereal

We've been teased for being 12, more than once, for sitting downing a bowl of cereal for breakfast, and possibly a late night snack. Though to help switch thing up from the Jammy Eggs, we have started making Overnight Oats. It's easy to get into the habit of making a jar with some Steel Cut Oats before bed, right after you set the coffee for the night. Plus the variety of toppings makes it really hard to tired of it. If making another thing makes your head hurt there is a premade brand called Mush. While the name seems a little off, it's a great alternative to making your own. We are big fans of Chocolate, Blueberry, and Vanilla Bean. They are also great for a mid-afternoon snack.

Lunch & Dinner

Chickpea Pasta Instead of Regular Pasta

Before you yell at the screen, I know that nothing beats “pasta” pasta. Besides roasting a spaghetti squash, there is now some great pasta out there that does not use processed flour. Nutrient-dense pastas made out of alternative ingredients are everywhere right now, and for good reason. Pow Red Lentil and Banza Chickpea pasta are great ones.

Snacks

Tahini Instead of Peanut Butter

If you have ever wondered where hummus gets its nutty flavor, it's Tahini. Which happens to be delicious with anything you would dip in peanut butter. Apples, carrots or even on top of the infamous rice cake.

Puffs Instead of Chips

Salty snacks have always been my weak point. With chip vendors making it so easy to grab a handful here or there, there has been more than one occasion I've looked down at an empty back of chips wondering where they went. These Hippeas chickpea puffs are an amazing alternative and very addictive. White Cheddar is my favorite with Pepper Power and Sriracha are right up there.

Desserts

Other Chocolate Stuff Instead of Cookies

Cookies cravings always come to me as a sneak attack. I can go months and then a glass of milk and half a dozen cookies become my best friend. I've been making chocolate protein balls and have also found some other chocolate treats as well. Hu Hazelnut Butter and Dark Chocolates and Eating Evolved Dark Chocolate Coconut Cups are quickly turned into our favorites. Base Culture also makes some tasty gluten free and clean dessert bread and brownie options.

It’s so easy to get stuck in the same old pattern at the grocery store, so no matter what it is, try picking something new out next time you shop. We also know that some of these products are pricey. See what’s out there in your area and budget! While we are the first ot admit that we are dieticians or even great at figuring out how many calories, type of fats. We simply wanted to give you some alternatives that seem to help us create a healthier lifestyle.