Probably one of the most common treats when it comes to junk food is Potato Chips or French Fries. I hear “My weakness is potato chips” or, “I love french fries!!!”

Ok… so I’m going to let you in on 2 of my dirty little secrets…
#1 I worked at New York Fries for 3 years to put me through university, where I ultimately received a degree that majored in Nutrition:-S
#2 I craved New York Fries like CRAZY in my first few weeks of pregnancy and TOTALLY caved. (Neither my thighs, nor my heart liked me afterwards)
So, there it is.  I’m ashamed…

In hindsight when I started to really look at WHY I was craving fries….

#1 My body wanted more fat
#2 My body wanted more carbs
#3 My body wanted more salt

Yep, all the totally unhealthy things that I could possibly want and NEED (yes, you do need these things for your body to function optimally)…. but here’s the thing… it made sense because I WASN’T eating much of ANY of these things!!

Here’s the conundrum though, some of you reading this article are currently consuming too much of these foods and therefore, you’re looking for some guidance on how to stop the craving.  The key is balance and healthy choices, as described below.  Please read on for healthy, yummy alternatives!!

What could I have done instead of eating fries??

#1 Fat

Eat nuts like almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds or choose a natural nut butter instead and spread on an apple (all nut products in moderation please).  Have healthy oils more frequently like olive oil, coconut oil, canola oil and put on leafy green salads or tomato and cucumber salads.  Avocado would’ve helped curb my fat craving too!  So a green salad with a few nuts, an oil and vinegar dressing and chopped avocado would’ve certainly been a healthier choice!!  Still lots of fat mind you but the HEALTHIER kind!

#2 Carbs

I could have just eaten a potato..(honestly!!)  Or a sweet potato… home made sweet potato chips would’ve been an excellent choice!  I’ve often done oatmeal with fruit or a rice cake with nut butter spread on it.  Air popped popcorn or mini rice cakes are also a much better option than potato chips or fries!  Roasted chick peas would’ve been another munchie carb but with more protein and fibre!!

#3 Salt

Often, all your body needs is some spice and it’s tricked into thinking it’s got it’s salt kick.  Garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, pepper it brings out the natural flavours of the food and your brain is happy!  When you really and truly can’t do anything about this craving, please get yourself a high quality sea salt or Himalayan salt from your health food store PLUS, drink extra water on those days that nothing but sea salt will do!

So, there you have it.  Several options instead of chips or french fries.  Ultimately, the CHOICE is up to you!!

Let me know if you have any questions or any other great alternatives,

Sara