Is salad worse than a hot dog?

Is salad worse than a hot dog?

#1: Choose your fruits and veggies wisely.

While there’s nothing wrong with iceberg lettuce, it doesn’t contain nearly as many nutrients as other leafy greens — like romaine lettuce, kale, spinach, or arugula.

All of these green options are low in calories to help you achieve a slimmer waistline… AND high in heart-friendly nutrients.

You can also toss in your favorite fruits and vegetables to add a little extra flavor and crunch — like apples, bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini.

(I personally love adding a little fruit into my salads for a little more flavor.)

 

#2: Don’t forget proteins.

Salad can be enjoyed as a tasty pre-meal appetizer — or, if you add in protein, as a meal itself.

If you’re adding meat to your salad, lean proteins are the way to go. Think white fish or grilled chicken.

If you’re skipping the meat… foods like beans, lentils, hard boiled eggs, and cottage cheese can pack a protein punch —

And protein can help you feel full more quickly … so you consume fewer calories and slim down faster.

 

#3: Eat more fat (you read that right!).

Believe it or not, it’s okay to add a little fat into your diet… as long as you pick healthy fats (and don’t go overboard!).

For example, nuts, avocados, and cheese are delicious and great for your body.

Avocados and nuts have been shown to promote positive heart health… while cheese is a great source of calcium and protein.

Best of all, these healthy fats are incredibly delicious… AND you can add them to a lot of other snacks and meals.

(Avocado brownies, anyone?)

 

#4: Dress down the dressing.

This is where a lot of salads go wrong. In fact, this can turn an otherwise healthy salad completely upside down.

Unfortunately, a lot of store-bought dressings contain tons of preservatives… added sugar… and saturated fats — and creamy dressings are the biggest culprits.

So whenever you can, opt for dressings made mostly from oil, vinegar, and water.

You can even make your own dressing at home. I personally love lemon vinaigrette. It tastes incredible — and you only need lemon juice, olive oil, and honey.

 

#5: Give in to your guilty pleasures

(in moderation).

If you simply can’t skip the croutons on your salad, then by all means — go for it. Croutons won’t make or break your diet.

Or if you just can’t pass on that delicious ranch dressing or blue cheese… pour a little on top.

Just remember: A healthy diet isn’t about cutting out all the tasty foods or starving yourself. It’s about balance and moderation.