Summer Treats

Sugar cravings are incredibly common, especially in the summer when cool treats tend to also be sweet. Of course, indulging in your cravings could lead to weight gain, which can worsen existing health problems and cause new ones to appear. Watch your summer treats intake, but continue to satisfy your cravings with these 12 healthy alternatives to tempting junk food.

Fruit & Berries

When most people crave sugar, their first instinct is to reach for high-fat, high-sugar summer treats like ice cream. However, fresh fruit and berries can satisfy your sweet tooth just as effectively with the added benefits of fiber and antioxidants. Turn your favorite fruits into irresistible summer treats by freezing them first.

Smoothies

If you have a freezer full of frozen fruit, put it to good use by whipping up a morning smoothie. It’s a cinch! Simply pick two or three types of fruit, add milk (preferably almond milk), and top it off with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. For extra nutrition and a little texture, throw in a handful of oats or sprinkle a teaspoon of Chia seeds on top. Then, blend until smooth. The fruity sweetness combined with the filling effects of yogurt or cottage cheese make this the perfect breakfast, especially after a good workout.

Almond Milk

Dairy-free milk is gaining popularity for its extra nutritional value and delicious taste. However, rather than buying sweetened vanilla almond milk, choose the far less sugary unsweetened version to maximize the health benefits.

Plain Greek Yogurt

All types of yogurt offer health benefits, but plain Greek yogurt is the best option. It’s free of added sugars and has more protein than regular yogurt to help fill you up. By itself, plain Greek yogurt isn’t all that sweet, so it’s best enjoyed with fruit or as part of a smoothie. You can even use it as a replacement for sour cream!

Frozen Yogurt

When you simply can’t get the idea of ice cream out of your head, substitute this summer treat with frozen yogurt. You get the same creamy experience with this dessert, but it comes with fewer calories and saturated fat.

Dried Fruit

When you run out of fresh fruit, that’s no excuse to start eating unhealthy summer treats. Keep some dried fruit in your pantry so you always have a source of fiber and other nutrients on hand in a simple, sweet package. Prunes, dates, raisins, and dried mangos are all highly portable, so you can take them with you for a midday pick-me-up at work.

Dark Chocolate

Milk chocolate is one of the most common foods women reach for when they’re craving sweets. Make a healthier choice by nibbling on dark chocolate instead. Comprised of at least 70 percent cocoa, dark chocolate offers more antioxidants and polyphenols than milk chocolate. Remember to keep your indulgence to a minimum, though, because dark chocolate still contains sugar and fat.

Sugarless Gum

When you feel a craving coming on, ask yourself—are you actually hungry, or are you merely bored, anxious, or stressed? Sometimes, you just need to keep your mouth occupied without increasing your calorie intake. The solution is to chew sugarless mint gum. Then, even when you spit it out, the lingering minty flavor makes you less inclined to eat right away.

Whole Grain Toast and Jam

Whole grains are packed with fiber and other nutrients, such as B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and more. Eating whole grains is an important part of a healthy diet. Sweeten up a slice of whole grain toast with a thin spread of jam. Whether you have it for breakfast or an afternoon snack, it makes the ideal replacement for traditional summer treats.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Who can resist the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls? Unfortunately, there’s nothing healthy about these frosted summer treats. For something more nutritious that will satisfy your craving, eat a slice of whole grain cinnamon raisin bread. Toast the bread and top it with a thin layer of cream cheese to mimic your favorite dessert even better.

Flavored Sparkling Water

What’s a day at the pool without a refreshing drink in hand? Instead of sugary soda, reach for flavored sparkling water. You’ll enjoy the tingle of carbonation and a light fruit flavor without the sugar, calories, and additives found in soda. Plain seltzer water is the healthiest option, which you can dress up with a few slices of lemon, lime, or orange.

Unsweetened Tea

Sweet tea is a beloved summer drink, but all that sugar isn’t doing your waistline any favors. Enjoy a healthier alternative by choosing unsweetened tea. And if you brew your own cup of coffee or tea in the morning, set the sugar bowl and honey aside, and reach for cinnamon instead. Not only does it have fewer calories, but it also regulates your blood glucose levels for fewer spikes and crashes throughout the day.

Complement Your Healthy Summer Treats with Therapy at Spine Correction Center of the Rockies

When you strive to avoid unhealthy summer treats, your waistline isn’t the only thing that benefits. Your overall health also improves, and your body becomes better equipped to heal quickly. That means the treatments you receive at Spine Correction Center of the Rockies are more effective when you watch what you eat and maintain a regular exercise program. Our knowledgeable team can provide professional nutritional advice to help you get there.

Ready for your healthiest summer yet? Feel free to contact us at (970) 658-5115 to schedule a free consultation at our Fort Collins office today.