Trimming the Fat

So, you’ve probably seen those articles in Men’s/Women’s Health Magazine called “Eat This, Not That”.  I try to pay attention to what they say, and some things have really been helpful.  Remember the salmon at Outback Steakhouse, anyone?  However, in my journey for a healthier life (I’m at Day #18 and still going strong!), I have come up with a few of my own substitutions I thought I would share:

1. McDonald’s Iced Mocha–I love these, but at 280 calories and 12 grams of fat, I think I can do better!  Try their sugar-free vanilla iced latte with nonfat milk instead; it’s still really good and has only 50 calories!
2. A Butterfinger Sonic blast–a large one has 924 calories and 37 grams of fat!  If you’re out and must have ice cream, I’d try McDonald’s ice cream cone: it has only 150 calories and bonus: right now it’s only $0.59!
3. Bacon Egg and Cheese Biscuit: one has 440 calories and 24 grams of fat, but an “egg McMuffin” from ALDI has only 210 calories and 6 grams of fat.
4. A slice of Chicken Bacon BBQ pizza from Papa John’s has 220 calories and 8 grams of fat, but a homemade spinach thin crust pizza has less than 100 calories per slice.
5. Ranch dressing: we don’t eat this in our house anyway because it has mayonnaise in it, but once upon a time I liked it on certain things.  Eating a lot of ranch dressing and mayo is never good for you! However, we got some fat free sour cream and some ranch dressing mix powder, and voila! Instant veggie dip!

I am finding out more and more the things I can eat that are delicious while being nutritious, and I am absolutely loving it!  The best part is, if I really want something that’s not-so-good for me, I can still have it.  We went to Long John Silver’s the other day, and instead of having my usual 2 pieces of fish, hushpuppies, and crunchies in malt vinegar, I had one piece of fish, one hushpuppy, and the mixed vegetable side and stayed within the 400 calorie range.  Also, I am trying things I have never tried before or wouldn’t usually try, such as hummus, tofu, flat breads, and tons and tons of black bean pico de gallo and spinach.  I literally eat the last two things on everything.  So here’s to another hopefully successful 18 days; I hope some of these have inspired you as well!