7. Homemade snacks as an alternative of store-bought snacks

Reading labels can make it easier to discover some store-bought snack foods with easy ingredients and minimal processing, but typically, this category is laden with sodium and additives. For a healthier alternative, pita bread triangles sprinkled with spices and olive oil bake up in minutes to a delicious crunchy snack. Popping corn kernels on top of the stove or in an air popper is one other great option. Nuts of their shell – comparable to walnuts, peanuts, hazelnuts – are also healthy decisions.

8. Homemade stock as an alternative of canned soup or broth

Most store-bought versions of soup, stock and broth are known for having excess sodium and fat. Simmering meat, vegetables, seasoning, and herbs for a number of hours in a big pot stuffed with water leads to a healthy stock you should utilize immediately to make your individual soup or freeze to have readily available each time you wish it.

9. Leftover homemade meats as an alternative of deli meats

Leftover baked chicken or roast beef are natural healthier options as an alternative of store-bought deli meats. Plan meals upfront so that you just’ll have leftovers that may serve double-duty for other meals.

10. Whole grains as an alternative of white rice or pasta

Processing grains for white rice and pasta removes a variety of probably the most nutritious a part of the grain. Whole grains (comparable to quinoa) and pulses (comparable to lentils) are excellent alternatives, as they contain more fibre, protein, vitamins and minerals.