Potato chips may taste good, but are they good for us? As they say, “You can never have just one,” and the high levels of fat, salt and additives often found in potato chips can easily take their toll on our health over time. If you’re down to snack on something, here are five healthy alternatives to consider.
5) Peanut Butter and Celery – This fancy little concoction provides the best of both worlds. You get protein and fiber at the same time. One tablespoon of peanut butter provides up to eight grams of protein, necessary for building muscle and bone strength, not to mention all the omega-3s to help lower cholesterol. The celery fights high blood pressure, regulates digestion, and even combats cancer.
4) Cottage Cheese – Cottage cheese is an exceptional food. Not only does it taste great (especially when combined with fruit), it’s loaded with protein and B vitamins, and can even reduce the risk of breast cancer. Cottage cheese is also loaded with good stuff like selenium, zinc, potassium and magnesium.
3) Berries – Berries are low in calories, assuring you won’t feel “stuffed” after you’re finished. They’re also high in fiber, and offer more vitamin C than most citrus fruits. Some berries, such as blueberries, contain special additions like antioxidants, allowing consumers to look younger longer.
2) Carrot Sticks – Carrots help lower cholesterol, making us less susceptible to heart attacks and cardiovascular disease. They can also reduce aging, improve skin condition and digestion, and even ward off certain cancers. Carrot sticks can also give you that same crunch satisfaction that you get from a bag of chips.
1) Apple Slices – As the old saying goes, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” It’s a phrase that still rings true, as apples are arguably one of the healthiest things you can eat. Apples help improve one’s digestive patterns by preventing stomach disorders and gallstones. They can also prevent liver problems, anemia, and lower one’s risk of heart attack. The list goes on and on. Studies even show that apples can help fight diseases ranging from Alzheimer’s to Parkinson’s.
Photo Credit: "Nothing Takes the Taste Out Of Peanut Butter" by Brian Talbot is licensed under CC BY 2.0
