We all know how hard it can be to give up our guilty pleasures, white bread and creamy pasta anyone? But seeing as it’s a new year, its the perfect time to revamp your pantry and fridge and substitute those highly processed items with healthier alternatives. After a few weeks you won’t even know the difference and better yet a new habit will have stuck.
Bread
Everyone loves a good avo on toast, but your bread choice may be letting you down. If your choosing to buy white bread then we advise you to seriously reconsider. Not only does it have little nutritional value, removing fibre and protein but white bread also increases your chance of type-2 diabetes and can cause weight gain. The best choice is undoubtedly whole grain as it contains a range of minerals and vitamins, lowering your risk of heart disease and obesity. One such example is Herman Brot’s low carb bread, containing low GI and low carbohydrates, it’s perfect for health conscious people, type 2 Diabetics, Vegans and Vegetarians. Drawing on six generations of bakers and made in Queensland, it’s a local treasure.
Rice
There are a variety of untapped options to choose from when selecting the right type of rice. For a start brown rice is much more healthier than plain old white, containing more nutrients and fibre. There’s also the choice of quinoa, filled with protein and with even more nutrients than brown rice. Cauliflower rice is another alternative perfect for increasing your veggie intake and helps to prevent cancer and removes toxins. Coles has it’s affordable range of quinoa that won’t break the bank.
Coconut Oil
I’m sure you’ve heard all about coconut oil, it’s become a staple in so many people’s lives, and while there have been some debates over its health benefits, it’s still worth it over vegetable oil. Where as vegetable oil contains unsaturated fats that can lead to inflammation in the body contributing to heart disease and diabetes. Coconut oil on the other hand is easy to digest and is known as a energy booster, helping your metabolism and promoting weight loss as well as lowering the risk of heart disease. One such good example is Dr Bronner’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, which is fresh pressed and has a rich and nutty flavour.
Salt
Believed to be the purest salt on earth, pink Himalayan salt is known for its many health benefits compared to normal table salt. Such benefits include electrolyte balance, thyroid function and detoxification just to name a few. Where as normal table salt can lead to high blood pressure, stroke and cardiovascular disease. You can find pink Himalayan salt in most supermarkets or health food stores, one such recommended brand being Mckenzie’s Himalayan Rock Salt.
Chocolate
While you may scoff at the suggestion of substituting your beloved chocolate, we have searched far and wide and found some healthy alternatives that are just as good. Cacao powder is perfect when your craving hot chocolates or smoothies, and instead of adding sugary chocolate powder or chocolate ice cream, you can add cacao powder instead. Packed with antioxidants and magnesium, its great for a healthy heart and brain. Another option is cacao nibs, which are crunchy and taste like unsweetened chocolate, they are perfect to spread over yoghurt, smoothies or to add in baking. But don’t go searching down your normal confectionary aisle, you’ll often find them in the health food section in supermarkets or in health food stores. One such example is Loving Earth Cacao Nibs, originating from the Peruvian Amazon and jam-packed with antioxidants.
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
Leave a Reply