One of the worst things about dieting is that you have to watch what you eat. If you have a sweet tooth, much of what you love best probably won’t be allowed. You should definitely have a cheat day now and then so you don’t feel totally deprived, but on regular days, you need an alternative way to satisfy your craving without wrecking your diet goals. Here are some healthy sweet treats you can eat without any guilt at all.
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1. A Mango is like Eating Dessert
I know that the last thing you want to eat when you are craving cake and brownies is fruit. However, a mango might just change your mind. Perfectly ripe mangoes are very sweet, but have far fewer calories than the sweets you might normally choose. You can slice the fruit off the pit and enjoy it anytime a craving strikes. Yum!
2. Have a Cup of Pudding
Pudding might feel like an indulgence, but if you choose a low-fat, low-sugar version, you can safely enjoy it for a treat. Pudding comes in lots of flavors so it’s a great way to satisfy a dessert craving when you’re trying to shed some pounds. From lemon to butterscotch to chocolate, there’s something for everyone. What’s your favorite flavor of pudding?
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3. You Can’t Go Wrong with Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate actually has several health benefits, but you have to eat it in moderation or you risk taking in too many calories. Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate make for one delicious snack that will also satisfy your craving for something sweet. The strawberries give you fiber to fill you up and the vitamin C is ideal for good overall health. A sweet snack that’s also healthy? Yes, please!
4. Scoop up a Yogurt Sundae
Instead of wasting all of your calories on ice cream, have a yogurt sundae instead. Start with a serving of plain low-fat Greek yogurt and top it with sliced fruit and a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce. You’ll totally feel like you just cheated, but you’ll actually be filling up on protein, calcium and other nutrients.
5. A Banana with Nutella is Perfect
The trick to enjoying something like Nutella is to stick to only one portion and make sure you balance the calories with what you eat for the rest of the day. Nutella is the perfect accompaniment for a fresh banana. Cut the fruit in half the long way, spread it with a thin layer of Nutella and stick the two halves back together.
6. You Will Love Frozen Grapes
When you freeze grapes, they take on a sweetness that can’t be matched. Plus, it takes a bit of time to eat one, so you have built in portion control, which helps you keep your portions from getting to large. All you have to do is spread grapes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Yes!
7. Toast with Cinnamon is Ideal
A slice of cinnamon sugar toast is comfort food at its best and it makes a great snack for indulging a sweets craving. Toast a slice of whole grain bread, then spread it with a small smear of butter, a pinch of sugar and a dash of cinnamon. This is a snack you are going to get addicted to.
8. Frozen Pops
Most ice creams and popsicles are loaded with fat and calories, but an all natural fruit or fudge frozen pop is just around 100 calories. This dessert is best enjoyed poolside!
9. Jell-O with Fruit
Low in calories and sugar, Jell-O single packs are portion-controlled and great for those with a sweet tooth. Top with fruit, or buy it with fruit already mixed in. Yum!
10. Oatmeal
Oatmeal isn't just a meal--a small portion cures hunger cravings, especially when you're looking for something sweet. 1/2 cup contains 100 calories full of fiber to make you feel satisfied. Dust with brown sugar for extra sweetness.
What’s your favorite healthy sweet snack? Which of these would you like to try first?
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