Healthy Snack Swaps

From crunchy and savory to creamy, sweet, and chewy, these nutritious snacks should leave you satisfied

From the LifeMinute.TV Team

July 21, 2023

Have a hankering for junk food? Try these healthier-for-you alternatives to help satisfy your cravings.

Candy Swap
Some research suggests eating dried fruit is associated with better diet and lower body weight. And dried fruit generally contains a good source of fiber and antioxidants, especially polyphenols. But be mindful of your portions since dried fruit often contains substantial amounts of natural sugars and may include added sugars.

Chips Swap
Make your own healthier version of a chip swapping potatoes for kale. Unlike traditional chips, kale retains its nutritional value after being made into chips. It’s a good source of fiber and contains several vitamins and nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and manganese. 

Ice Cream Swap
Create a creamy and delicious version of Neapolitan ice cream with fewer calories and added sugar. Replace milk with unsweetened almond milk. One cup contains about 40 calories and is naturally rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin E. Use frozen bananas as a naturally sweet base for all three flavors. Mix in unsweetened cocoa or cacao powder for chocolate, pure vanilla extract for vanilla, and fresh or frozen berries for the strawberry flavor.

Fries Swap
Bake your own fries, but swap out the potatoes for zucchini. Cut zucchini long ways into matchsticks. Dip in mixture of egg and breadcrumbs then bake at 425ºF for 20 minutes. Zucchini is rich in the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, as well as vitamin K and magnesium, all of which can help strengthen bones.

Soda Swap
Sugary and caffeine-laden sodas and fruit juices can add empty calories and increase the risk of medical conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Sparkling water made with real fruit juice provides a refreshing and hydrating alternative and may help you consume fewer calories throughout the day.

Pizza Swap
Swap your conventional pizza dough for a cauliflower pizza crust. Cauliflower is lower in carbs than the traditional crust, which should be helpful for those with diabetes.

Nachos Swap
Replace tortilla chips with a colorful mini rainbow of crunchy, sweet peppers to create a healthier twist on traditional nachos. They are lower in calories and carbs than your typical nacho and provide extra fiber.