4 simple food switches that are healthier for you

We are constantly bombarded with information about various foods and drinks - normally either saying we should not have it, or it is a super food we should all be eating.

But life should be about enjoying what you want in moderation. You can, though, make some changes that mean you can still have what you like, but maybe in a healthier way.

Chocolate (dark instead of milk)

Mmmmmm. We all love it, especially me. Hence my constant weight battle (not to self, must do better). Well, here is my chance. Instead on gorging on milk chocolate, have dark chocolate instead. Yes, this is something that is well known, but do you know why?

Dark chocolate is actually lower in sugar and fat than it's milk counterpart. Chocolate that is 70 per cent cocoa, or above, is also higher in antioxidants. These prevent oxidative stress, which inflicts damage on cells and tissues in the body, leading to problems including heart disease and cancer.

It makes you wonder why all choc bars are not dark chocolate - but ultimately that is out taste buds preferring the sweeter taste.

Meat (chicken instead of pork)

Let's look at one in particular - Pork. Some processed pork, such as bacon, is high in saturated fats which can raise cholesterol, leading to heart problems, obesity and other life threatening conditions. If you swap it for leaner meats, such as chicken and turkey, these provide protein without some of the negative properties of pork.  It's just a suggestion.

Sugar (honey instead of refined)

Oh, the bane of obesity problems. Ironically, the brain needs glucose to function. But we can adjust how we get sugar into out bodies. Refined sugar is linked to a range of negative health conditions, such as diabetes. Why not swap it for honey if you can. Porridge, desserts, or even in coffee, will all sweeten up, but give you a more natural sweet hit without the same number of issues.

Snacks (popcorn instead of crisps)

Most crisps are high in saturated fats, calories and salt, and have next to no nutritional value. You could always swap for lightly seasoned popcorn (not the sugary ones), which provide nutrient, fibre, and antioxidants, and have less fat per serving.

HMHB says:

We all need to enjoy our food, but also remain vigilant of what we out into our bodies, If there are healthier alternatives, why not try them out.

This includes - wholemeal from white ((bread, rice, pasta)

Also - sweet potatos from normal

Plus Real fruit from fruit juice

and many more