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      Every Product Your Kitchen Needs To Make Healthy Eating Easy (and Delicious)

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      The real secret to successfully eating healthier (while still staying sane) is truly cooking at home more often. And the secret to cooking healthy at home more often is stocking your kitchen with items that make healthy cooking easier, and stocking your pantry with more nutritious versions of all your favorite foods. When a craving hits, you won’t have to ignore it. Instead, you’ll be prepared to DIY a meal that tastes as good as it is good for you. Stock up on these kitchen essentials that make healthy eating a breeze, and get ready for a happier, healthier you.

      In this article

       
      Equipment

      Beast Health
      Blender
      Compact, sleek, and functional, this blender serves up the smoothest smoothies, dressings, soups, nut milks—you name it—hands down. Did I mention you can conveniently take it to-go?
      Available in two colors.

      Always Pan
      Braise, sear, steam, strain, sauté, fry, boil, serve, store—there’s essentiallynothing this pan can’t do. Plus, it’s non-stick and non-toxic, so all you have to worry about is what you’re going to dish out.
      Available in nine colors.

      Automatic Nut Milk Maker
      If you’re a real health nut, you might be having oat milk with your coffee and almond milk in your smoothies. But many of the packaged kinds are processed and full of added chemicals. Make DIYing your own plant-based milk a piece of (dairy-free) cake with this easy-to-use nut milk maker.
      Available in two colors.

      Good Grips
      Salad Spinner
      Greens need to be washed at home (all the dirt, pesticides, touching… yuck!), but can get soggy after washing if you use a plain ol’ strainer. The salad spinner dries your greens quickly, leaving you with clean, crisp, and ready-to-use veggies.

      Indoor Grill
      If you haven’t jumped on the air fryer bandwagon yet or you’re in the market for a new one, look no further. This time-saver is not only an air fryer, but it also grills, roasts, bakes, and dehydrates. And it’s on sale!

      Menu Denmark
      Bottle Grinders
      Not your average salt and pepper shakers, these chic bottles grind more than just S + P. They also grind herbs, spices, grains, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for more nutritious and tasty meals. Their pretty design is just icing on the cake.
      Available in two colors.

      Instant Pot
      Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
      Say hello to your other must-have, all-purpose gadget to make your weeknight dinners a pinch. Throw ingredients in the pot and set a timer for an easy-to-use and easy-to-clean way to make everything from soups and steamed veggies to pasta and ribs and even cheesecake (yes, you read that right!).

      Crate & Barrel
      4-Piece Place Setting
      There’s no denying we also eat with our eyes, so why not romanticize and zhuzh up your meals with an aesthetically-pleasing dinner set? This find sets an impressive table for dinner—whether a casual supper for one (or two) or a more formal gathering.
      Available in two colors.

      Organization

      Glass Lunch Bowl Container
      Get rid of those plastic containers that are as bad for your body as they are for the environment. Instead, try out these microwave and dishwasher-safe glass storage containers that will not only keep your fridge tidy (and pretty), but also won’t leak toxins into your food.
      Available in five colors.

      Bee’s Wrap
      Reusable Beeswax Food Wrap
      Wrap up leftovers or on-the-go meals or snacks with good-for-the-environment wrap instead of single-use plastic wrap. You probably get it by now: A healthy kitchen means healthy for you AND our planet.

      Reusable Sandwich Bag
      Make plastic storage bags a thing of the past with this reusable silicone and easy-to-store alternative. Whether you use it to pack up lunch, store leftovers, or steam veggies, you won’t miss your old Ziploc bags. Oh, and this gem is freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher-safe.
      Available in multiple sizes and colors.

      Onion, Garlic, Lemon, Tomato, Lemon, and Avocado Keepers
      No more half eaten avocado, tomato, lemon, garlic, or onion that ends up in the trash, thanks to these finds. The BPA-free keepers extend the shelf life of your favorite produce while keeping your fridge organized.

      Lazy Susan Organizer
      With this organizer, you can easily find and grab what you need—be it snacks, sauces, produce, or supplements—with a quick turn. The clear, BPA-free bins are removable, making refills and clean-up a cinch.

      5-Piece Container Set
      A healthy kitchen starts with always having good-for-you pantry staples on hand that you can use to easily and quickly whip up nutritious meals. Well, this dishwasher-safe, BPA-free, and stackable set will keep your dry foods fresh and your pantry in order.

      Cord Organizer for Kitchen Appliances
      Your kitchen countertops will be free of messy, annoying power cords with these cord keepers. Simply attach them to the back of your small kitchen appliances (think: blender, coffee machine, air fryer, toaster) for a well-kept kitchen.

       
      Cookbooks

      Kathryne Taylor
      Love Real Food
      Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or meat-eater, this cookbook has something for everyone. Loaded with 100 approachable and delicious meatless recipes made with fresh, wholesome, sustainable food, it takes the guesswork out of weeknight dinners.

      Kristin Cavallari
      True Comfort
      Channel Kristin Cavallari in your own kitchen when you recreate her favorite healthy, gluten and refined sugar-free comfort food recipes. What’s more, she let us in on her tips and tricks to putting together a well-stocked pantry, fridge, and freezer.

      America’s Test Kitchen
      Bowls: Vibrant Recipes with Endless Possibilities
      There’s something about bowls that makes its contents that much more appetizing. With 75 bowl recipes and mix-and-match bases, toppings, and sauces, this cookbook ensures there will be no shortage of bowl nights. Seared Tuna Poke Bowl, anyone?

      Toby Amidor
      The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook: Easy and Wholesome Meals to Cook, Prep, Grab, and Go
      There’s no denying that meal prep saves time and money, but let’s face it: When we do get around to it, we often stick with the same ol’, uninspired meals. Enter: The Healthy Meal Prep Cookbook. Packed with wholesome grab-n-go options for breakfast and lunch as well as quick dinners, consider your meals for the week ahead cooked and ready to serve.

      Jeanine Donofrio
      Love and Lemons Every Day: More than 100 Bright, Plant-Forward Recipes for Every Meal
      Known for her food blog featuring fresh recipes with seasonal fruits and vegetables as the main ingredients, Donofrio dishes out more than 100 new vegetarian recipes in Love & Lemons Every Day. Leave it to Donofrio to turn butternut squash into the tastiest creamy queso you’ve ever had and transform sweet potato into a smooth chocolate frosting. And ever wonder what to do with those unused vegetable parts (looking at you, broccoli stalks)? You better believe she’s got a clever solution or two for that.

      Ina Garten
      Modern Comfort Food: A Barefoot Contessa Cookbook
      No one does soul-satisfying dishes like Ms. Ina Garten. Sometimes you just need a hearty cheddar and chutney grilledcheese sandwich with a side of creamy tomato bisque to warm your insides. From whipping up special weekend breakfasts and quick weeknight dinners to cocktails and dessert, it’s the closest thing to having Ina cooking alongside you IRL.

       
      Pantry Staples

      Verve Coffee Roasters
      Fair Trade Organic Coffee
      If you’re drinking a cup (or three) of coffee a day, you should know where it comes from and that it’s full of all the good antioxidants sans pesticides, added chemicals, etc. This java is fair trade, organic, and made in California, so you know exactly what you’re getting.

      Noble Made
      Classic BBQ Sauce
      Don’t mistake this essential pantry staple for the standard sugar-laden version. The Noble Made rendition is made with all-natural, clean ingredients (think: water, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, and spices) and gets its slightly sweet kick from pineapple juice. Taco Tuesday, Meatless Monday, and your BBQs just got a major upgrade.

      Simple Mills
      Farmhouse Cheddar Crackers
      When it comes to snacks, there’s nothing more classic than cheese crackers. But these cleaner Simple Mills cheddar crackers get an “A” for the nutrient boost they deliver on, thanks to their flour blend of almonds, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds, not to mention organic cheese. A winning combo of carbs, protein, and fat, what’s not to love?

      Hearts of Palm Pasta
      Your pasta night just got a whole lot more nutritious and exciting. This low-carb, high-fiber linguine pasta made out of hearts of palm may be veggie-based, but it tastes and looks like the real deal.

      Sea Salt Tortilla Chips
      Got a serious guacamole addiction? Same. Try these non-GMO, grain-free tortilla chips that are made with avocado oil and contain more fiber and protein than your typical chips for guilt-free snacking.

      Base Culture
      Sourdough Bread
      The best thing since sliced bread is, well, this sliced bread, and for good reason. Made with zero artificial ingredients and a solid mix of carbs, protein, and fiber, you can’t go wrong making toasts and sandwiches with this bread.

      Marinara Sauce
      Slow-cooked sweet Italian tomatoes, olive oil, onions, salt, garlic, basil, black pepper, and oregano (read: fresh, whole ingredients) come together to create this no-sugar-added, classic marinara sauce. Top off the aforementioned linguine pasta, spaghetti squash lasagna, or pizza crust with it for a clean, authentic Italian meal (insert chef’s kiss).

      Navitas Organics
      Chia Seeds
      Instantly give your smoothie, oatmeal, stir fry, salad, and baked goods (I could go on and on) a protein and fiber boost with this organic, nutrient-dense superfood.

      Chosen Foods
      Avocado Oil Spray
      PSA: Many store-bought foods and restaurant dishes are cooked with genetically-modified vegetable oils (think: canola or sunflower oil). The good news? When you have this 100% pure Avocado Oil Spray that is free of chemicals, emulsifiers, and propellant as your kitchen sidekick, you can cook, sauté, bake, dress, or broil worry-free.

      14 Ways to Eat Healthier This Year Without Going on a Diet More

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      Not Into Dry January? Try These Healthy Alternatives Instead of Giving Up Alcohol Completely

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      So you knocked back one too many spiked eggnogs and mulled apple ciders during all the merrymaking (AKA holidays), and when January 1 rolled around, you committed to Dry January—a popular yearly tradition alongside the common resolutions to work out more or lose weight—and swore you wouldn’t touch alcohol for the next 31 days. Sure, going cold turkey may sound like a good idea in theory, but when those post-holiday blues set in, taking a whole month off from drinking alcohol can feel unrealistic. And, IMO, any restrictive, quick-fix trend—be it a diet, detox, or cleanse—raises a red flag and sets off the alarms in my head.
      If you’ve decided to say “no” to jumping on the Dry January train and holding the booze for the entire month, you’ve come to the right place. Give these healthy approaches to drinking a shot (pun intended) this January and beyond. Whether you’re sober curious, wanting to cut back on imbibing for good, or considering taking a mindful break, read on for simple and sustainable alternatives to Dry January. 
       
      1. Try Damp January
      Consider Damp January Dry January’s more moderate, laid-back cousin. Rather than nixing alcohol completely, the idea behind Damp January is to drink in moderation and find a healthy balance throughout the month. It takes away the pressure, not to mention the feeling of being deprived, and allows you to enjoy the occasional Taco Tuesday margarita while making you less likely to engage in mindless drinking. Instead, you’re able to take a step back, reflect on what role alcohol plays in your life, and reevaluate your relationship with it. Translation: If you want a glass of wine, have it because you’re making choices based on what makes you feel good now (and later), rather than out of habit. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
      If Damp January is much more up your alley, the best part is you set the ground rules. That may look like keeping your daily count to one, recruiting an accountability partner, finding resources to help you reduce your alcohol intake, like a podcast or app, or changing up the way you socialize (more to come on that). However you partake in Damp January, it can help you hit “reset” on your drinking habits. 
       
      2. Set boundaries before drinking 
      Sometimes we just need to create some boundaries around a habit we want to change in order to see it through, and drinking alcohol is no exception. Before the week begins, determine the days you’ll imbibe. Perhaps you’ve decided Winesday Wednesday and Saturday-night mocktails it is. Will you set a drinking limit? No more than two nightcaps per night? Like with setting any goal, start small and be realistic, and once you achieve it, you can reach higher. And whatever you decide, commit to drinking one glass of water per alcoholic bevvie to offset its dehydrating effects. 
      You may notice only having drinks on the designated days will bring more awareness to your drinking patterns. Do you look to that cocktail to help you get through uncomfortable social engagements or that glass of Pinot to unwind after a long, stressful work day? Are you ordering that next round of drinks or topping off your glass of wine out of enjoyment or simply because it’s the thing to do? Also take note of how you feel mentally and physically after the days you drink versus when you abstain from drinking. Do you find yourself tossing and turning after a night of drinking and more clear-headed and energetic the morning after skipping the wine? Bottom line: Being more mindful when you drink and recognizing your inclination to drink will give you the upper hand in making healthier choices for you. And when you have guidelines to follow, you’ll set yourself up for success. 

      3. Stick to certain types of alcohol
      It goes without saying that not all alcohol is created equal. There are less-than-healthy libations, and then there are the notoriously mixed drinks high in sugar that leave you with much to be desired (hello, sugar-induced coma, crappy sleep, and hangover). Instead, reach for a single, clear alcohol, like vodka and tequila, as opposed to dark liquor (think: rum, whiskey, and rye), which has a higher sugar content and will likely lead to more dehydration and worst hangover symptoms. Mix with kombucha for its probiotics perks or sparkling water upgraded with fruits and herbs in a nice glass (because everything seems to taste better and feel fancier in one). 
      Another tried-and-true alternative to sugar-laden cocktails? Opt for organic red wine that’s free of preservatives, added sugars, and pesticides. Not only does it promote moderate drinking because you’re more likely to take your time enjoying it, but it also contains heart-healthy antioxidants. You can also try DIYing wine spritzers (mixing wine with sparkling water) and mulled wines. Wine spritzers deliver a one-two punch by lowering the alcohol content while adding the hydration factor, and mulled wines serve up additional health benefits with its spices. 
       
      4. Occasionally switch to non-alcoholic alternatives 
      Thanks to a major shift in drinking culture in which booze-free refreshments reign supreme and can be found at practically any food or beverage establishment, there’s a non-alcoholic substitute for whatever your drink of choice may be. From bubbly and spirits to beer and wine, take your pick of alcohol-free drinks that pack in flavor sans the dreaded hangover, not to mention the other undesirable side effects of alcohol, added sugars, and artificial flavors (you know, sleep disruption, mood swings, hangxiety…). If you still want some alcohol, but only care to keep drinking for the taste or experience, try one alcoholic drink and then switch to a booze-free alternative.
      Mixed drinks meant to mimic the presentation and taste of craft cocktails without the alcohol are having a moment, and for good reason. They’re as sophisticated and tasty as the next adult bevvie with endless recipes that you can enjoy at home (time to restock the bar cart!) or in any social setting. Trust me—you won’t even miss the alcohol. Going dry doesn’t stop there. If you’re into superfoods and supplements, you might want to check out functional beverages that infuse non-alcoholic alternatives with ingredients like adaptogens, amino acids, plants, and CBD.  The main takeaway? Saying “Bottoms up!” with booze-less varieties has never felt or tasted better. 

      5. Plan more alcohol-free activities
      It goes without saying that there are certain pastimes that are centered around booze and where you’re more likely to let your hair down than others. Case in point: happy hour, sporting events, parties. So when your BFFs want to hit up The Tipsy Cow or have a GNO, try suggesting an alternative activity that doesn’t involve drinking alcohol, such as a spa day, going for a hike, or acting like tourists and checking out the local attractions.
      Additionally, remember that glass of wine you lean on to relax after a rough day? Find other ways to take a breather. Whether that looks like sweating it out in a Pilates class, picking up a new hobby, or finally diving into that book you’ve been meaning to get to, choose a form of recreation that’ll occupy your time and take your mind off of sipping on an alcoholic beverage. You’d be surprised how much easier it is to stick with your new healthy drinking habits when you swap out the vino for another activity you consider a treat. Bonus points? You may end up saving some cash while you’re at it. 
       
      While this article addresses emotional dependencies and behaviors related to alcohol, it is not meant to help treat addiction. If you are struggling with substance abuse, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for assistance.

      A Health Expert’s Guide to the Healthiest Ways to Drink Alcohol More

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      3 No-Cook Lunch Recipes That Go WAY Beyond The Sandwich

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      Load shedding starts and hunger strikes! Within a few minutes of browsing foodie videos on Instagram and TikTok; Grrrrr; your hunger pains elevate. These quick and easy lunch recipes will fuel you up in a jiffy and you don’t even have to cook anything.

      Try these delicious and nutritious no-cook recipes:

      Roast Beef Salad

      Serves 4

      Time: 15-minutes

      What You Need

      2 small heads butter lettuce, torn into pieces

      35 grams sliced roast beef

      1 large tomato, cut into wedges

      1/2 red onion, sliced

      110 grams of soft goats cheese, crumbled

      1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

      2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

      2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

      Salt and black pepper

      Method

      Divide the lettuce, roast beef, tomato, onion, and goat cheese among bowls. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

      Drizzle over the salad.

      Click here for more info

      READ MORE: Exactly How To Make The Perfect Pizza On The Braai

      Gazpacho Chicken Salad

      What You Need

      1 cucumber

      4 cups shredded chicken (buy a ready-cooked chicken)

      2 chopped peaches

      2 cups halved cherry tomatoes

      1 yellow bell pepper

      ½ cup diced red onion

      1 cup feta

      Dressing

      1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

      2/3 cup fresh basil

      2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar

      1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper

      Method

      Slice cucumber into long strips with a peeler; squeeze out excess water.

      Toss with shredded chicken, peaches, cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper and red onion feta.

      Chill mixture. Serve on a bed of greens.

      Drizzle with dressing.

      READ MORE: 3 Healthy Braai Recipes For An Outdoor Summer Feast

      Fresh Spring Rolls

      What You Need

      1 large garlic clove, smashed

      1 1/2 tablespoons light brown sugar

      1 teaspoon Thai green curry paste

      2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

      2 tablespoons fish sauce

      1/4 cup chopped coriander

      1/4 cup chopped mint

      1/3 cup mayonnaise

      4 cups coleslaw mix

      2 cups of either shredded roast chicken, ready-cooked prawns or tuna depending on your preference.

      24 rice paper wrappers

      Method

      In a mortar, pound the garlic to a paste with the brown sugar and green curry paste.

      Add the lime juice, fish sauce and three tablespoons of water. Stir in half of the coriander and mint.

      In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise with one tablespoon of the green curry dipping sauce. In a large bowl, toss the coleslaw mix with the roast beef and the remaining cilantro and mint.

      Fill a pie plate with warm water. Dip two or three rice paper wrappers at a time in the water, then set them on a work surface to soften, for about one minute.

      Spread a scant teaspoon of the curry mayonnaise on the bottom third of each wrapper and top with a scant three tablespoons of the filling you’ve chosen (tuna etc.).

      Roll the wrappers into tight cylinders, tucking in the sides as you go.

      Transfer the rolls to a plastic wrap-lined baking sheet and repeat with the remaining wrappers, curry mayonnaise and filling.

      Just before serving, cut each roll in half and serve with the dipping sauce. More

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      This Celebrity Nutritionist Shares Her Tips on How To Kickstart Healthy Eating Habits

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      So it’s been a stressful week (or weeks–looking at you, holiday season) and your regular eating habits are thrown off-kilter. You’ve been making food choices that aren’t aligned with your bodies’ needs and cues. The result? Brain fog, low energy, painful bloat, weakened immune system, or just an overall feeling of blah. First of all, take a deep breath. It’s OK–we’re cyclical beings and our food habits are naturally cyclical too. But you don’t have to let a couple of takeout meals or a holiday season of eggnog and cookies spiral into an extended period of eating foods that don’t make your body feel its very best. 
      While there’s no one-size-fits-all definition of “healthy,” there are simple and sustainable ways to build a good-for-you diet (without actually going on a diet). I asked Kimberly Snyder, nutritionist, spiritual and meditation teacher, and author of You Are More Than You Think You Are, to let us in on her secrets on how to feel and look your best. With a clientele that reads like an A-list party invite (Reese Witherspoon, Drew Barrymore, and Channing Tatum, if we’re going to name-drop), consider her Hollywood’s go-to nutritionist—and now yours. Read on for the healthy eating tips she lives by.

      Meet the expert

      Celebrity Nutritionist
      Kimberly Snyder is a three-time New York Times bestselling author, spiritual and meditation teacher, nutritionist, and wellness expert. She is also the founder of Solluna®, a holistic lifestyle brand, and the host of the top-rated Feel Good Podcast. Snyder has been featured by many national media outlets, including Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The New York Times.

      1. Start the day with hot water with lemon
      The Ayurvedic practice of drinking hot water with lemon in the morning has long been touted for its health benefits (think: get things moving), and for good reason. “This simple practice helps to get you hydrated in the morning, supports great digestion, and can support your liver, your main detoxifying organ–it’s like drinking from the sun!” Snyder remarked. “Full of vitamin C, it’s a great way to support glowing skin as well.”  So before you reach for your morning cup of joe or bite into your breakfast, wake up and hydrate your body with the citrus-spiked beverage. Bonus points: You’ll get a leg up on hitting your hydration goal for the day and be more mindful of staying hydrated throughout the day by drinking the concoction first thing in the AM. It’s a simple addition to your morning routine that your digestive and immune systems will thank you for. You just might notice a glow-up in your skin too. 

      2. Stick with plant-forward eating
      We all know that a whole, nutritious diet includes piling on the greens. But rather than focusing on cutting out your favorite foods, Snyder encouraged setting your sights on munching on more plants. What would you find in Snyder’s fridge? Kale, spinach, microgreens, sprouts, apples, carrots, bananas, and nuts. “My mornings always include a Glowing Green Smoothie, made with three cups of leafy green vegetables, celery, banana, pear, apple, and lemon juice,” Snyder described. “This smoothie has 9-11 grams of fiber, which is key for stabilizing blood sugar and preventing the body from craving sugary foods later. This, along with giving ourselves incredible amounts of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, all work together and leads to being more in tune with nature and making better decisions all day.”
      Not a fan of a cold refreshment in the morning? Drink Snyder’s signature drink at room temperature or simply make sure you’re checking off produce at every meal. They’ll not only load you up with fiber and micronutrients, but also keep your body satiated and your blood sugar levels stable (read: a boost in energy and mood). 

      3. Meditate consistently
      Fueling our bodies physically through nutrition and movement is important, but the other piece of the wellness puzzle is giving our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being some much-needed TLC. Enter: meditation. “This is the most important practice of all, in my opinion, which has radically transformed my health, clarity, inner peace, intuition and abundance,” Snyder stated. “When we connect to our True Self, we stay more centered throughout the day and are able to be more clear and energized. You will know when you are truly hungry and will be better equipped to deal with emotions rather than give in to food cravings.” In other words, by connecting with yourself through meditation, you’ll bring awareness to the present, feel more calm, and be more in tune with your bodies’ signals.
      Let go of any perception that you have to meditate for an extended amount of time to reap the benefits. Even a one-minute meditation can flip on the well-being switch. Lean on Snyder’s guided meditations, download a meditation app that speaks to you, or take up focused breathing. 

      4. Take the right kind of probiotics
      If I were to pick the wellness buzzword as of late, it would be gut health. It’s the key to your physical and mental health after all. And that glow from the inside out we all crave? You can thank (or blame) your gut microbiome. Of course, the holy grail to keeping your gut health in check is eating a healthy diet, but adding high-quality probiotics to your regimen can also do wonders to heal your gut or keep it happy.
      According to Snyder, the word “probiotic” combines two Greek words: “pro,” which means promotion of, and “biotic,” which means life. The name says it all! “Probiotics have been shown to strengthen your immune system, improve digestion, promote weight loss, and even protect you from certain ailments and diseases,” Snyder emphasized. What’s more, according to Harvard Health Publishing, probiotics can help restore the balance when the gut becomes unbalanced with unhealthy levels of certain bacteria, thanks to unhealthy eating, stress, poor sleep, etc.
      When researching the best probiotic for you, consider the types of bacterial strains used, which strains and/or brand names have been studied for their effectiveness, and how the probiotics need to be stored. As a general rule of thumb, Snyder recommended looking for a formula containing soil-based organism (SBO) strains, such as her Solluna Feel Good SBO Probiotics+. “What does not make a formula effective or not is culture count,” Snyder conveyed. “Many brands can add billions of cultures into a formula for marketing, but they are destroyed before they get into your gut and they are not in proper ratios or the composition you need for a healthy, balanced microbiome. It’s not about numbers, it’s about efficacy.” When in doubt, pack on probiotic-rich foods like kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, tempeh, kimchi, and sourdough bread.

      5. Check in with your body’s response to dairy 
      According to Snyder, many people are intolerant or sensitive to dairy, but undiagnosed; a whopping 65% of the human population is lactose intolerant. “Even for those who aren’t entirely ‘intolerant’ to lactose, dairy can still be a major trigger for irritable bowel syndrome among other digestive conditions, such as chronic constipation,” she explained. If you’re part of the 65% and have a lactose intolerance, your body is unable to fully digest the lactose in milk, leading to symptoms ranging from gas and bloating to abdominal pain and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. 
      Snyder suggested reaching for plant-based sources of calcium such as green leafy vegetables, tahini, and sesame seeds and eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to fill in the gaps in your diet where dairy played a role. Thanks to the many plant-based alternatives to milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, you name it, at our disposal, going dairy-free has never been easier (or tastier). 

      Healthier Swaps for All Your Favorite Snacks (That Still Taste Amazing) More

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      These 13 Simple Mocktails Are So Good, You’ll Make Them Long After Dry January

      by

      Like it or not, alcohol is a major part of our daily lives. People enjoy wine with dinner, grab drinks with friends or co-workers after a long week, and raise glasses of Champagne to toast newlyweds. And while consumption in moderation (especially of wine) can offer a few benefits (it has antioxidants), too much alcohol can seriously put a wrench in your healthy-living goals. Enter mocktail recipes.

      For those of us looking to drink less booze, the non-alcoholic drink options out there aren’t exactly exciting. And they don’t quite serve the same purpose that many alcoholic drinks can when it comes to elevating your food. After all, nothing quite goes with steak quite like red wine, or pretzels with beer.

      That’s why we found 13 amazing non-alcoholic mocktail recipes that will work with your own cooking. These mocktail recipes are easy to make, delicious, and aren’t just juice.

      READ MORE: What Is Dry January — And What Are The Health Benefits? Experts Weigh In

      1. Lemongrass Iced Tea

      Cals 24 | Fat 0G | Carbs 6G | Protein 0G | Serves 6

      Ingredients:

      3 Lemongrass stalks

      6 Green teabags

      2 Tbsp Honey

      Ice

      6 Sprigs of mint, plus extra, to serve

      Directions

      Halve the lemongrass stalks lengthwise, then smash with the back of a knife (careful, now).

      Pop them in a pan, add 1.4l water, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 mins.

      Take off the heat, add the tea bags and honey, and allow to brew for 5 mins.

      Strain into a jug and stir in 470ml of cold water. Serve over ice with mint. Zing.

      2. Rosemarie Pear Spritzer

      This pear variety is native to SA. Yay!

      Cals 169 | Fat 0G | Carbs 41G | Protein 0G | Serves 2

      Ingredients:

      65g Sugar

      1 Vanilla pod

      5 Cardamom pods

      2 Ripe Rosemarie pears

      6 Tbsp Apple cider vinegar

      Ice

      Sparkling water

      Directions:

      In a saucepan, bring the sugar, vanilla, cardamom and 125ml of water to a boil.

      Cut a few pear slices for garnish and roughly chop the rest; add to the pot.

      Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 mins, then let it stand for 30 mins.

      Strain, then stir in the apple cider vinegar. Pop in the fridge to cool.

      Line 2 glasses with the pear slices, add ice and divvy up the mixture. Top with sparkling water.

      3. Cherry Crush

      Cals 119 | Fat 0G | Carbs 30G | Protein 1G | Serves 6

      Ingredients:

      50g Sugar

      4 Cloves

      1 Star anise

      3cm Piece of ginger, sliced

      1l Cherry juice

      Crushed ice, to serve

      Directions:

      Pour 125ml water and the sugar into a saucepan.

      Stir in the cloves, star anise and the ginger, bringing gently to a boil.

      Reduce the heat and simmer (refrain from stirring) until the sugar dissolves – it should take about 3 to 4 mins.

      Once cool, strain the syrup into a jug and stir in the cherry juice. Fill your glasses with crushed ice and pour in your cocktail. Berry nice.

      4. Tangerine Sour

      Cals 74 | Fat 0.5G | Carbs 16G | Protein 2G | Serves 1

      Ingredients:

      125ml Naartjie juice (you’ll need about 6 naartjies) plus some peel to garnish

      1 tbsp Lemon juice

      1/2 tsp Real maple syrup

      1 tbsp Egg white

      3 Dashes orange bitters

      Ice

      Directions:

      Pop all the ingredients except the peel in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously (see, that hen do cocktail-making class wasn’t a complete waste of time) for 1 min.

      Pour over ice and garnish with a sliver of naartjie peel. Voila.

      5. Green Mary

      Cals 75 | Fat 1G | Carbs 17G | Protein 2G | Serves 6

      Ingredients:

      225g Tomatillos, husked (Can’t find them? Use green tomatoes or unripe red tomatoes with a squeeze of lime)

      1 Cucumber, peeled and chopped

      4 Stalks celery, chopped

      50g Fresh coriander

      1 Jalapeño chilli, deseeded

      115ml Lime juice

      30g Fresh horseradish, squeezed of excess moisture

      2 Tbsp Peppadew brine

      1 tsp Green Tabasco

      ¼ tsp Salt

      ½ tsp Pepper

      Ice

      Celery, to garnish

      Pepperoncini or jalapeño, to garnish

      Aleppo pepper, to garnish

      Directions:

      Pop the tomatillos or tomatoes, cucumber, celery, coriander, jalapeño and lime juice in a blender and whizz until smooth (about 1 min). Strain through a medium-mesh sieve into a measuring jug, pressing to extract as much juice as possible.

      Next, whisk in the horseradish, Peppadew brine, hot sauce, salt and pepper.

      Serve over ice, garnished with celery and pepperoncini or jalapeño, in a glass rimmed with Aleppo pepper for max presentation points.

      READ MORE: 10 Healthy Summer Recipes You Can Make In Under 20 Minutes

      6. Guava Margarita

      Cals 78 | Fat 0G | Carbs 20G | Protein 1G | Serves 1

      Ingredients:

      Ice

      115g Guava nectar

      3 Tbsp Orange juice

      2 Tbsp Lime juice

      Salt

      Lime wedge, to garnish

      Directions:

      Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, then add the guava nectar and the juices and shake it like a Polaroid picture. Don’t have a cocktail shaker? Just chuck everything in a blender for a frozen version. (Don’t have a blender? Haai shame.)

      Strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Serve with a slice of lime, as fancy as you like.

      7. Ginger Hibiscus Spritzer

      Cals 23 | Fat 0G | Carbs 6G | Protein 0G | Serves 8

      Ingredients:

      5cm Piece of ginger, sliced

      6 Tbsp Dried hibiscus flowers

      3 Tbsp Agave syrup

      Ice

      Sparkling water

      Directions:

      Bring, the ginger, hibiscus, agave and 240ml water to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 5 mins.

      Remove from the heat and let it stand for 10 mins before straining into a jug and stirring in 480ml of cold water.

      Pour a few tablespoons into each glass and top with sparking water or PURA Soda Cranberry. It’s low in sugar, natural and colourant free.

      8. So-Cal Mule

      Sylvie Gabriele, owner of Love and Salt, in Los Angeles created this mocktail recipe that pairs best with fish. | Serves 1

      Ingredients:

      80ml sparkling lemonade

      60ml pear juice

      20ml fresh lime juice

      20ml maple syrup

      Directions:

      In a highball glass, combine limeade, juices, and maple syrup and stir.

      Add ice and garnish with a sprig of mint.

      9. Ginger Fizz

      This mocktail recipe created by Sylvie Gabriele pairs best with chicken. | Serves 1

      Ingredients:

      1/2 tsp grated ginger

      2 thin slices fresh mango

      60ml mango juice

      120ml ginger beer

      Directions:

      In a tall glass, muddle ginger and mango slices.

      Add mango juice and ginger beer and stir.

      Add ice and garnish with a slice of lime.

      10. Sparkling Tart Apple

      Another Sylvie Gabriele creation. This one pairs best with steak. | Serves 1

      Ingredients:

      150ml sparkling apple-grape juice

      1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar

      Directions:

      Pour juice into a wine glass and add vinegar.

      Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary.

      READ MORE: Try This Trendy And Delicious Vegetarian Orzo Pasta Recipe Now

      11. Lyre’s Penicillin

      A modern classic with warm, soothing flavours of honey, citrus, ginger, and Lyre’s American Malt.

      Ingredients:

      Directions:

      Shake briefly with ice.

      Strain over large ice cubes and serve in an old-fashioned glass.

      12. Lyre’s Amalfi Spritz

      A tall refreshing, slightly citrusy beverage is perfect for those warm summer nights.

      Ingredients:

      Directions:

      Add all ingredients in a glass.

      Stir and fill with fresh cubed ice.

      Serve in a large or stemless wine glass.

      13. Lyre’s Mojito

      What’s not to love about a classic mojito? Serve in a highball glass with a lime wheel and mint sprig.

      Ingredients:

      Directions:

      Add all ingredients into the glass.

      Fill with fresh ice cubes and stir.

      Add soda and garnish.

      Text: Jessie Van Amburg, Isobel Bridge and Trish Clasen | Photography: Chelsie Craig, Getty Images/iStockphoto | Food Styling: Rebecca Jurkevich More

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      in diet and nutrition

      5 Vegan Breakfast Recipes To Help You Ace Veganuary

      by

      Looking for plant-based recipes for Veganuary that are more inspiring than a banana smoothie? If you feel that your vegan breakfasts are getting samey-samey, shake things up with these nutrient-packed, filling recipes to fuel you for the day ahead.
      These vegan recipes are courtesy of healthy foodie Alice Liveing and appear in our bonus book special: Little Book Of Breakfasts: 33 Recipes To Energise You For The Day Ahead.
      1. Spicy butter beans on sourdough

      This vegan recipe can be made gluten-free too if you swap the bread for a gluten-free bread of your choice.

      Ingredients

      Glug of olive oil
      1 shallot, finely chopped
      small garlic clove, crushed
      1⁄2 tsp smoked paprika
      200g tin of butter beans, rinsed
      200g tin of chopped tomatoes
      salt and pepper
      1 slice of sourdough

      Method

      Add the olive oil to a saucepan, then throw in the shallot and garlic, along with half a tablespoon of water and the smoked paprika and leave to sweat for a few mins.
      Next, add the butter beans and chopped tomatoes and leave to simmer on a low heat for around 20 mins, seasoning as desired. While that’s doing its thing, toast the sourdough. Serve the beans on toast and dig in.

      2. Cinnamon oats with stewed apple

      We love powering up our oats with extra fruit, like bananas, berries and stone fruit. Think of this as a healthy apple crumble breakfast.

      Ingredients

      1 small apple, cut into chunks
      1 tsp ground cinnamon
      50g whole rolled oats
      1 tbsp chopped dates
      1 tsp mixed seeds
      almond milk, to cover

      Method

      Begin by throwing the apple chunks into a saucepan with two tablespoons of water, along with the cinnamon, and gently simmer with the lid on for 3 to 5 mins.
      Leave them until softened, then add the oats, dates, and seeds and cover with almond milk. Cook this through until gently simmering, then serve and tuck in.

      READ MORE: 14 Of The Best Vegan Protein Sources

      3. Smashed avocado and mushrooms with vegan pesto

      You can get ready-made vegan basil pest from Princess Pesto

      Ingredients 

      2 tbsp olive oil
      200g mushrooms, sliced
      1⁄2 avocado
      1 slice of sourdough, toasted
      1 tbsp pesto
      salt and pepper

      Method

      Begin by adding one tablespoon of olive oil to a frying pan, then fry the mushrooms until slightly browned and cooked through.
      Mash the avocado and spread it over the sourdough toast.
      Combine the pesto with the remainder of the olive oil, then place the mushrooms on top of the avocado toast, followed by a good drizzle of your pesto sauce. Season and chow down.

      READ MORE: How To Make A Vegan Bolognese… With A Twist

      4. Vegan strawberry smoothie bowl

      Freezing berries (and other fruit, like bananas, mango, melon, pineapple) is a great way to always have these nutrient-packed powerhouses at hand.

      Ingredients

      6 large strawberries
      65g oats
      200ml oat milk
      100g frozen raspberries
      3 large ice cubes
      desiccated coconut (optional)
      almond flakes (optional)

      Method

      This one’s nice and simple. Blitz all the smoothie ingredients (save for the coconut, almonds and one strawberry) in a blender, then pour into a bowl. Top with whatever you fancy – I like desiccated coconut and almond flakes for added crunch.

      READ MORE: Raw Vegan Dark Chocolate Tart Recipe
      5. Porridge with plum and pistachio

      Adding a scoop of vegan protein powder to your oats, smoothies or smoothie bowls helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.

      Ingredients

      1⁄2 tsp coconut butter or oil
      1 large plum, cut into thin wedges
      50g whole rolled oats
      200ml unsweetened almond milk
      1⁄2 tsp ground cinnamon
      1⁄2 scoop of vegan vanilla protein powder (or similar)
      15g pistachios, shelled
      1 tsp maple syrup

      Method

      Preheat the oven to 180°C, then line a baking tray with foil and lightly grease with coconut butter or oil.
      Arrange the plum wedges on the baking tray and roast in the oven for 15 mins or until softened, turning halfway through.
      Meanwhile, put the oats in a small saucepan over low heat, add the almond milk and cinnamon, then gently simmer for a few mins, stirring often. Stir in the protein powder and continue to cook for another few mins, adding an extra splash of milk if needed.
      Roughly chop the nuts or put them in a sandwich bag and give them a bash with a rolling pin. Serve the porridge in a bowl, top with the roasted plum pieces and nuts, and then drizzle with maple syrup.

      READ MORE: 4 Healthy Vegan Dinner Recipes Worth Making
      These recipes were originally extracted from Clean Eating Alice Eat Well Every Day (Harper Thorsons), photographs by Martin Poole. Visit Alice’s website for more healthy foodie inspo. More

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      in health and weelbeing

      14 Ways to Eat Healthier This Year Without Going on a Diet

      by

      From rotating diet fads to misconceptions about how to eat healthier to achieve impossible body goals, numerous factors make nutrition seem complicated (and maybe even impossible), but healthy eating shouldn’t be so confusing. Rest assured, there is no miracle diet. There is no one method or magical list of guidelines to automatically get us all to achieve health goals, feel more energy, clear up the skin, and lose weight. Because while one way of eating might cure one person, it could be limiting to another. Plus, dieting is never sustainable—when we’re eating from a place of restriction, we will never feel satisfied. Food is meant to be as enjoyable as it is nourishing. Ditch your diets and try these 15 ways to eat healthier this year that you can stick to for your whole life (and not one of them is to restrict an entire food group).

      1. Have leafy greens with two meals a day
      If you make one change to your diet in 2023, consider it be eating more leafy greens. From spinach to arugula to watercress to romaine, leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Plus, they’re so easy to sneak into meals—there is absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t be eating multiple cups of greens a day. Try adding spinach to your smoothie, putting kale in a pasta dish or sauce, or ordering a side salad when you’re eating out. If all else fails, try these delicious ways to eat more greens. 

      2. Find plant-based alternatives of your favorite foods
      Listen, if you don’t like salads, don’t eat salads! Forcing yourself to eat bland meals and boring dishes will lead to binges, excessive cravings, and, worst of all, an unsatisfying life. Instead of eating foods you don’t like, get creative with healthier versions of your favorite foods. Try adding in more veggies or making simple swaps like opting for cauliflower pizza crust or chickpea pasta. For recipe ideas, check out these healthy alternatives to your favorite comfort foods and plant-based recipes for every craving.

      3. Make mealtimes sacred
      Healthy eating is not just about what you eat but also how. In a world where meals are often on the go and fast food is on every corner, we forget that food is not just about surviving—or even about enjoying the taste. Mealtime serves as a reminder to pause, slow down, and enjoy. Consider taking a break from work, turning off the TV, putting your phone away, and making each meal an opportunity to relax and be mindful. Whether you enjoy meals with the people you love or use it as an act of meditation to take a break from the busyness of your day, every meal should be about slowing down and mindfully enjoying your food.

      4. Load up on good-for-you beverages
      You already know to drink water and avoid sugary beverages like soda or sweetened coffee drinks as much as possible, so now it’s time to hack your hydration and include even more good-for-you beverages (in addition to your reusable bottle of water). For example, tea (like green, white, or hibiscus) has lots of health benefits, thanks to health-boosting components like polyphenols. You can also try sipping on green juice or replacing your typical soda with sparkling water, mint, and lemon. Bottom line: In addition to drinking water throughout the day, get creative with nutrient-rich drinks to sip on to increase health benefits and hydration.

      5. Eat fruit with breakfast
      Your mom used to give you orange slices and bananas with your Cheerios when you were a kid, but do you still keep up with your fruit intake? Maybe you’re good at adding veggies to your diet but forget about fruit, maybe you grab a breakfast sandwich from a coffee shop in the a.m., or maybe you’ve heard the myth that fruit isn’t good for you. The truth is that fruits are full of antioxidants, minerals, and fiber. They come from the earth; our bodies are meant to eat them. Whether your breakfast of choice is an omelet, avocado toast, or a bowl of Cheerios (old habits die hard), consider eating some berries or grapefruit on the side. 

      6. Add herbs to every meal
      Another easy way to sneak in fresh produce (are you sensing a theme here?) is by adding herbs to every meal. While herbs are typically considered a garnish, they’re actually leafy greens packed with nutrients and a variety of health benefits. Plus, they make everything taste more delicious. Try putting basil leafs on homemade pizzas, adding cilantro to stir-fries and sushi rolls, or chopping parsley into salads. Bonus points for starting your own herb garden at home.

      7. Listen to hunger cues
      So long, intermittent fasting trends and outdated “three meals a day” rules! 2023 is about ditching rules about when we should or shouldn’t eat food (and how much we’re supposed to eat). Instead of forcing yourself to eat three meals a day or five small meals a day (or whatever the latest trend is), simply eat when you’re hungry. Give yourself nourishing meals and focus on feeding your body with enough energy to get through the day, whatever that looks like to you. Likewise, rather than eating a portion that someone else recommends (whether it’s your mom, a restaurant, or the recommendations on the box), eat until you’re satisfied and not overstuffed. Find the amount, time, and method of eating that works best for your body and lifestyle. 

      8. Sprinkle seeds on everything
      If you haven’t been utilizing the seed food group, you are seriously missing out. Seeds like chia, flaxseed, and pumpkin seeds are nutritional powerhouses, containing a wide variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like calcium, zinc, and magnesium. I sprinkle ground flaxseed on basically anything (yes, even dishes like pasta and salads), but you can also try adding chia seeds to your smoothie, snacking on roasted pumpkin seeds, and sprinkling sesame seeds on stir-fries. 

      9. Include more water-rich foods in your diet
      Drinking water is so 2022 (but, like, also crucially important, so please keep that up); you can eat your water too. Eating foods that are high in water content is the secret to long-term, lasting hydration (and a lit-from-within glow). Call in some backup for your water bottle by loading up on plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, romaine lettuce, and berries, which are all high in water. Watermelon is one of the most hydrating foods you can eat (no surprise where it gets its name), with a water content of 92%. Water-rich foods will hydrate your body like good ol’ H2O but will also add in the extra nutrients that come from fruits and veggies. 

      10. Try one new vegetable every week
      You probably have the same grocery list that you know, love, and revert to every single week when you head to your local Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods. While having a go-to list is necessary for us busy girls (and my other lazy girls out there), it doesn’t always set you up for the most inventive meals or greatest variety of nutrients. Challenge yourself to try one different veggie that you’ve never tried before. Maybe you saw a delicious butternut squash recipe and have never cooked butternut squash, maybe you see beets at the grocery store and Google how to prepare them, or maybe you come across a new leafy green at the farmer’s market that you’ve never tried. Trying (or cooking) something new will not only make your meals more exciting, but a bigger variety of foods also means a bigger variety of nutrients. Plus, you might like something so much, it ends up on your go-to grocery list. 

      11. Fill the majority of your plate with foods from the earth
      Instead of the 80/20 rule or limiting yourself to a plant-only diet if it feels too restrictive to you, think about eating “plant-foward.” While that title definitely sounds a little hokey, the idea is that you can emphasize and celebrate nutritious foods, but you don’t have to be limited to them. Instead of measuring, tracking, or limiting, simply make sure that the majority of your plate comes from the earth (instead of a factory), whether that looks like fruits, vegetables, whole grains (like oats, rice, and quinoa), or nuts and seeds. You’ll load up on the foods that make you feel good without restricting yourself from the foods that you enjoy. 

      12. Add more fiber to your diet
      While fiber is not the sexiest nutrient (protein and fats get all the attention!), it is one of the most important. And yet, only about 5% of the country’s population meets daily fiber recommendations. Fiber is the part of foods that the body can’t break down, so it passes through your entire digestive system and helps keep it healthy. But fiber has benefits other than just gut health and regularity (though those would be good enough). You can find fiber in fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and seeds.

      13. Eat the rainbow
      No, I’m not talking about Skittles. You learned in middle school science class that plants get their colors from antioxidants, so it only makes sense to eat all the colors to provide your body with all the antioxidants, right? Incorporating all the colors—reds (tomatoes, apples, red pepper), blues (blueberries, blackberries, blue potatoes), oranges (sweet potato, butternut squash, tangerines), greens (leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, zucchini), yellows (spaghetti squash, bananas, corn), and purples (purple cabbage, eggplant, grapes)—is the easiest (and prettiest) way to ensure you’re getting an abundance of phytonutrients and the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. As an easy hack, try to add at least three different colors to each meal or include each color of the rainbow while grocery shopping.

      14. Let yourself enjoy foods you love
      You may think that deprivation helps you avoid “bad” foods, but in reality, deprivation is causing a lack mentality, meaning you’re more likely to binge said food when you do eat it or, more importantly, not truly enjoy your life. This isn’t just a warm and fuzzy body positivity tip—it’s a physical health hack that will help your body feel its best. When we remove “good” and “bad” labels around foods, we can listen to what the body really wants. We start craving the foods that help us live while mindfully enjoying the foods we never want to live without.

      These Items Will Actually Help You Reach Your Resolutions This Year More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Healthier Swaps for All Your Favorite Snacks (That Still Taste Amazing)

      by

      We’ve all been there: Hanger sets in and you raid your pantry for the first store-bought grub you can find (looking at you, box of cookies). But whether it’s the mid-afternoon work slump or a case of the late-night munchies, you don’t have to sacrifice healthy eating or feel lethargic and sick to get your tasty, satisfying snack fix. From cereal and chips to candy and pizza, there’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t disappoint or skimp on flavor. Ahead, a round-up of better-for-you snacks that are just as satisfying as their counterparts. So whether your goal is to eat healthier or feel better, look no further. We’ve got all the dupes for your OG go-to sweet or salty bites. 
      Before we dive into it, a brief disclaimer: There’s room for all foods in a healthy–foods that check off the nutritious box, and those that simply taste good and bring you joy. These suggestions are not meant to villainize any foods. Instead, we’re dishing out alternatives that are similar to your favorites but beef up the nutritional value so you can satisfy your cravings without the all-too-familiar sugar crash. But if nothing hits the spot like that Lucky Charms or Cheetos, intentionally indulge totally guilt-free. This list is not intended to encourage you to avoid any foods, but rather to provide you with options if you’re jonesing for something to munch on that’s crunchy, salty, or sweet but want to lean on the healthier side. Warning: If you’re not already hungry, you’re about to be.  
       

       

      Lovebird Foods
      Cereal
      While we may not be parking it in front of the TV for our Saturday morning cartoons anymore, there’s something about the breakfast staple (cereal, ICYMI) that still brings comfort in adulthood. Unlike its colorful neighbors that line the shelves of the cereal aisle, Lovebird Cereal is made with organic, nutrient-dense cassava and coconut, and sweetened with honey and coconut sugar. In other words, you won’t find any artificial filler ingredients here. Plus, their offerings are full of prebiotic fiber to help support gut health. Breakfast for dinner, anyone?
      Available in four flavors.

      Pizza Bites
      Your classic childhood fave (read: a slice of cheese ‘za) has been reimagined into ooey-gooey, bite-sized goodness. Loaded with organic veggies, grass-fed cheeses, and olive oil all wrapped in a grain-free golden crust, each satisfying, nutrient-dense (hello, protein and fiber) nibble lives up to the reminiscent cheesy bliss with no pesticides, fillers, or added sugars. With meat lovers and vegetarian varieties, consider the Snow Days Pizza Bites your conventional pizza stand-in. Your taste buds and body will thank you. 
      Available in four flavors.

       

       

      Unreal Snacks
      Dark Chocolate Peanut Gems
      Step aside, M&M’S. There’s another chocolate treat in town, except the Unreal Snacks assortment uses up to 51% less sugar than the leading brand. Sans corn syrup, sugar alcohols, artificial additives, and chemical dyes, these poppable morsels may taste unreal, but there’s nothing fake about them. Reach for their Dark Chocolate Peanut Gems, Milk Chocolate Gems, or Crispy Quinoa Gems to get that equal parts chocolatey and crunchy gratification.
      Available in multiple varieties.

       

       

      Siete Foods
      Kettle Cooked Potato Chips
      The expression “Often replicated, never duplicated” may apply in most cases, but not here. These Siete Potato Chips serve up the perfect crunchy-salty combo you’d expect from the traditional potato chip with one major difference: Instead of the typical refined and genetically-modified vegetable oil (think: canola or soybean oil) you’d find on the label, these gems are cooked with heart-healthy, antioxidant-packed avocado oil. What’s more, you can get your hands on all the usual suspects in their flavor line-up—salt and vinegar, BBQ, and cheese, just to name a few. Did I mention the brand also has a Doritos dupe that can’t be beat (come at me)?
      Available in six flavors.

       

       

      Lesser Evil
      Paleo Puffs
      Fellow lactose-intolerant peeps, rejoice! Trade in the artificially-flavored and dyed Cheetos for these almost too-good-to-be-true Paleo Puffs that give Chester Cheetah a run for his money and then some. Expect the cheese factor (literally), but without the dairy (yes, you read that correctly). Instead, they use organic, non-dairy seasoning to pack in the flavor. Oh, and they’re also gluten-free and made with organic, immune-boosting coconut oil. The only downside? Try stopping at just a handful. 
      Available in three flavors.

       

       

      Simple Mills
      Farmhouse Cheddar Crackers
      Why mess with a classic like Cheeze-Its? For starters, these cleaner crackers get an “A” for the nutrient boost they deliver on, thanks to their flour blend of almonds, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds. And with organic cheese in their arsenal, you get a winning combo of carbs, protein, and fat. Nosh on them alone or with a black bean dip or hummus for an additional helping of protein and fiber. 
      Available in five flavors.

       

       

      Toto Foods
      Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookie
      This isn’t your run-of-the-mill packaged confection by a long shot. With 10 grams of protein, eights grams of fiber, and a healthy dose of carbs and fats, you won’t regret subbing in this plant-based, gluten-free cookie as a mid-day or post-workout snack. It doesn’t hurt that it checks all the boxes for a foolproof dessert either. And the wholesomeness doesn’t stop there—add adaptogens like lion’s mane that can reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression to its list of superfood ingredients. Talk about keeping it real. 
      Available in two flavors.

       

       

      Sacred Serve
      Gelato
      The crème de la crème of beloved snacks: ice cream. While it gets a bad rap for its usual sugar-laden contents, Sacred Serve’s pints prove otherwise. Here’s the inside scoop: Sure, it’s technically vegan, but the rich, creamy texture will leave you wanting more. Made with potent superfoods, adaptogenic herbs, and medicinal mushrooms, not to mention naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, you can rest assured that there won’t be digestive drama. Happy gut, happy life, am I right?  
      Available in five flavors.

       

       

      Real Food From The Ground Up
      Cauliflower Pretzel Twists
      Pretzels may take a backseat to some of the aforementioned eats, but don’t get it twisted (pun intended): These aren’t your typical pretzels. Packed with a vegetable blend of spinach, broccoli, carrot, tomato, beet, and mushrooms (that you can’t taste), you’ve got salty-crunchy deliciousness with a side of fiber.

       

       

      Donuts
      They look, smell, taste, and feel like donuts, but even better and without the added sugars and artificial flavor. With an ingredient list you don’t have to think twice about, you’re left with “the feeling of eating a donut without the feeling you get after eating a donut.” Now that’s what we call a major “glow”-up.
      Available in five flavors.

       

      9 Grocery Store Hacks Our Wellness Editor Uses To Save Money and Eat Healthier More