Ditch the Froyo for Yogurt
Froyo tastes so good in the summer, but it's loaded with sugar and calories. For a sweet treat that won't pack pounds, make a yogurt parfait with unsweetened yogurt. Load your yogurt up with low-calorie chocolate syrup, fresh fruit, coconut flakes, chia seeds, and more. The toppings will be so flavorful that you won't miss the added sugar.
Swap Crunch for Chips
Hummus and pita chips sound like a healthy snack, but those chips can add up, calorie-wise. When you're in the mood for something crunchy, trade the chips for a crunchy veggie, like carrots. The sensation of crunch will satisfy that snacking sensation, and you'll get protein and fiber with fewer calories.
There are lots of ways to make the same foods you already enjoy, but using less fat or sugar. If you love microwave popcorn, start air popping your own popcorn using a microwave and paper bag. Rather than coat your popcorn with butter, try nutritional yeast, which has a cheesy flavor.
If you love fried chicken sandwiches from fast-food restaurants, order a grilled chicken sandwich to lower the calories in the dish.
Often, leaving off a topping -- say, a slice of cheese or a creamy salad dressing -- will drop the calorie count of your favorite food. If you're worried your favorite food won't taste as good without your creamy dressing or sauce, ask for the sauce on the side.
Dry Fry for Healthier Meals
The more cooking oil you use, the more calories in your dish. Master the art of dry frying to lower calories in your side dishes. To dry fry, use a nonstick skillet. Place the veggies or meat in the skillet and allow them to cook over heat. If your veggies start to burn, use a little water. Meat such as ground turkey or beef should cook using the fat that melts off through the cooking process.
Try Your Favorite Foods - in Smaller Servings
Sometimes you have a craving that won't go away. While you may be able to avoid the first couple of cravings, eventually you'll cave and wind up binging on a guilty pleasure, then feel awful for falling off your diet.
