Clean up your Diet

It is so challenging when you have a favorite recipes and they don't quite fit your new lifestyle... well here are a few of my favorite ingredient swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream when you’re whipping up a spinach dip, ranch or French onion dip as an appetizer. This swap will make any chip dip healthier, and plain, nonfat Greek yogurt is a much better source of protein. Also a great on a clean taco salad or baked potato! If you’re feeling really ambitious, swap the chips for fresh veggies too!
• Use olive oil instead of butter when you’re cooking anything on the stovetop, like sautéed veggies or scrambled eggs. Unlike butter, olive oil doesn’t have cholesterol. In fact, it is known to help lower bad cholesterol while increasing levels of good cholesterol.
• Use a banana instead of an egg when you’re making a Sunday morning pancakes or a birthday cake. The banana will give provide sweetness and moisture, and it’s a great way to make your dish vegan-friendly. You can also use applesauce instead of a banana as another vegan-friendly replacement.
• Use spaghetti squash instead of pasta when you’re craving carbs. Spaghetti squash is a vegetable, so one serving can provide your body with the recommended daily intake of potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. Whole-wheat pasta is a great way to satisfy your comfort food craving if you need it, but if you’re wanting to ditch the carbs (and a few pounds) go for the squash.
• Use almond milk instead of cow’s milk for your cereal, oatmeal and coffee. Unsweetened almond milk is one of the most nutritious milk substitutes out there, and it’s free of saturated fats. It’s also a great vegan source of protein, and has less calories per serving than cow’s milk.
• Use mashed cauliflower instead of pizza crust or mashed potatoes healthier and a low carb option!