Health(ier) dessert swaps that won’t have you compromising your healthy eating plan.
For those of us with a sweet tooth, dessert is something we are not willing to give up. So how can you satisfy your sweet cravings without ruining your health? These treats will hit the sweet spot with added health benefits.
When you feel like chocolate…
When you feel like chocolate you can have it, just make sure it’s dark. Findings from two studies show dark chocolate consumption reduces stress and inflammation, while improving memory, immunity and mood. Lorna Linda University were behind both studies, which showed that consuming 48 grams of dark chocolate with minimum 70% cacao (which equates to half a block of Lindt chocolate) had the positive effects. It’s the flavonoids found in cacao that are extremely potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, with known mechanisms beneficial for brain and cardiovascular health.
When you feel like ice cream…
Go bananas. While we would never suggest you give up ice cream entirely, eating a punnet a day isn’t going to do your waistline any favours. A surprisingly healthy alternative to ice cream is frozen banana, and it’s super easy to make.
Just keep a few peeled bananas in the freezer and when you feel like a creamy sweet treat, all you need to do is put a couple of bananas in the food processor and blend. For a creamier texture you can also add some coconut milk. For added flavour (and more nutrients) can add toppings like nuts or chopped (dark) chocolate. And if that’s not sweet enough for you, dip a whole frozen banana in chocolate. You won’t be disappointed. Bananas are naturally sweet, and are also a good source of potassium and fibre. Research has also shown that they can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cancer and asthma.
When you feel like something rich and decadent…
Reach for peanut butter, or any nut butter. Unfortunately not all nut butters are created equal, so look for one that has just the nuts, and isn’t packed with sugar, vegetable oils and trans fats. Nut butters are high in calories but they are also a good source of protein, healthy fats and some vitamins and minerals like vitamin E. While some people are happy to eat a spoonful from the jar to satisfy sweet cravings, nut butters can also be used to make brownies, smoothies and slices.
Not sure which brand to buy? We’ve rounded up some of the best peanut butters in New Zealand.
