Healthy Alternatives to favorite comfort foods

Think of these alternatives as a lifestyle change instead of a diet, then you will surely see results faster (Photo Credit: Alycia Washington).

With spring break right around the corner, it’s safe to say that most students are trying to get in shape. However, with winter in full swing, it’s hard to not crave comfort foods. Many of these comfort foods contain unhealthy ingredients and are high in calories and fat, but here are some healthy alternatives to eat on a cold day that won’t ruin your ‘spring break bod’.

Crispy Kale Chips (replacing potato chips)

Kale is known for being extremely high in protein, while potato chips are known for being extremely high in sodium. Here is a healthy alternative that can still give you that crunch you crave.

Check out the recipe from Food Network: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/crispy-kale-chips-recipe.html

Greek yogurt chocolate chip cookies (replacing chocolate chip cookies)

Recently, greek yogurt has become extremely popular due to its many health benefits. Here is a recipe that combines both savory and sweet to create one of the most common comfort foods on cold, winter nights.

Check out the recipe from Honey and Fig Kitchen: http://honeyandfigskitchen.com/2013/12/greek-yogurt-chocolate-chip-cookies.html

Cauliflower Grilled Cheese (replacing a grilled cheese sandwich)

A grilled cheese sandwich is the epitome of comfort food, especially with a cup of tomato soup. Here is an altered version of this classic using cauliflower as an alternative to bread.

Check out the recipe from The Iron You: http://www.theironyou.com/2014/05/cauliflower-crust-grilled-cheese.html