Getting Healthy (for real) By Detoxing Your Pantry
Healthy eating starts in the kitchen and what’s in your pantry matters a lot! To help you make healthier choices, we've compiled a list of four common pantry items that you should consider getting rid of. We know…these items can be so irresistible or make food taste so much better. But, they are also highly processed and can be too convenient to grab, and it’s important to minimize the amount of processed foods in our diets to maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Processed snacks and junk food
It's all too easy to reach for that bag of chips or box of cookies when we're feeling stressed, bored, or just looking for a quick pick-me-up. But the truth is, these types of foods can do more harm than good. They're often packed with added sugars, fats, and calories, and offer little to no nutritional value.
Some healthy alternatives are veggie crisps, Popcorners, seaweed snacks and more!
Refined Sugar
Many junk foods, such as candy, soda, and coffee creamer, contain high amounts of refined sugar. These foods often contain more sugar than the recommended serving, which can have negative effects on your health. It's important to note that refined sugar should not be confused with the natural sugars found in fruits, which are a healthier source of sugar for your body. By choosing to eat more fruit instead of candy you may notice a positive difference in how you feel! But also consider low-sugar or refined sugar-free food items like Smart Sweets, Olipop, and Hu chocolate.
Trans Fat
Trans fat is a type of unsaturated fat that is formed when liquid vegetable oils are partially hydrogenated, a process that converts them into solid fats. Trans fats are often used in processed foods to improve texture and extend shelf life. Some examples of foods that may contain trans fats include margarine, shortening, canned frosting and whipped cream. Fortunately, there are healthier and more delicious alternatives to these pantry staples for most homes like switching margarine for butter, olive oil, and avocado oil. Additionally, try making your own whipped cream! It’s easy and all it takes is heavy cream and sugar - very affordable and delicious!
Read more about trans fat here
Expired Items
We all know how easy it is to hoard expired food, but we need to get rid of them! Not only does it take up valuable space in your kitchen, but it also loses its freshness, taste and nutritional value. Plus, it can even become contaminated with harmful bacteria. So instead of hoarding expired food, let's make a conscious effort to consume it before it expires. It will not only keep your kitchen organized and safe, but it also allows us to enjoy fresh and nutritious food.
In conclusion, taking the time to detox your pantry can be a wonderful step towards not only decluttering your space, but also fostering healthier eating habits. It's a great opportunity to make more mindful and conscious food choices and is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and energized. So give it a try, you'll be glad you did!
