So you’re trying to get shredded for summer. Welcome to the club. At first you feel empowered. You’re eating veggies, cooking at home, and sticking to your workouts.
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But then you remember that broccoli is, well, broccoli. It’s a tough road ahead, full of booty pain, cravings, and protein powder. Fear not! These junk food hacks can curb your hanger so you can reach your fitness goal sustainably.
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1. Powdered Peanut Butter
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All of the flavor and rich smoothness of peanut butter without the fat (1.5g v. 16g) or calories (45 v. 188). PB2 comes in regular and chocolate. Combine with water and spread on toast or a banana. You can also add it to a chocolate protein shake for a chunky monkey smoothie.
2. Air Popped Popcorn
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This is a perfect movie theatre option. Pop your own preferably organic, single serving popcorn, or buy from a health-conscious brand. We like Boomchikapop’s because they’re GMO free and have flavors like salted caramel and barbeque.
3. Low Cal/Low Fat Ice Cream
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The summer isn’t summer without ice cream. You can either have a tablespoon of your favorite Haagen Daaz or you can find an alternative. The market for healthy ice cream has expanded greatly recently. Brands like Arctic Zero, Halo Top, and Ben and Jerry’s Greek Yogurt are big on flavor and much lower on sugar, fat, and calories. Check out vegan options such as cashew milk ice cream as well.
4. Turkey Burger
Photo by Maddy Fredrick
This bird offers satiating fat and protein which will keep you full and happy. Make your own using ground meat from your local butcher. Into veg? Veggie options using black beans, quinoa, beets, and brown rice are full of vitamins and minerals.
5. Sweet Potato Fries
Photo by Maddy Fredrick
Slice your taters lengthwise and drizzle with olive oil/grape seed oil/canola oil. If you’re watching your find a spray option. Sprinkle with 1 t. garlic powder, 1 t. paprika, 1/4 t. salt, and 1/4 t. chili powder. Bake at 400 degrees F for 20 minutes and watch the magic happen.
Just because you’re watching your diet doesn’t mean you have to lose your sanity. Try out these substitutes and your body and soul will thank you.