While comfort foods are often thought of as unhealthy, there are some that can actually be good for you. While I'm not suggesting that you go out and start eating macaroni and cheese every day—that would be ridiculous—there are times when it's okay to indulge in these casual treats! Here's my list of five surprisingly healthy comfort foods:
Mac and cheese
When you're craving comfort, mac, and cheese is often the first dish that comes to mind. But did you know that this old classic can actually be healthy?
If you're going for a traditional bowl of creamy goodness, make sure it's made with whole wheat pasta (or even better--zucchini noodles!) and skim milk instead of cream or half-and-half. You can also add broccoli or other veggies for extra fiber and vitamins.
As long as you're not loading up on tons of cheese and butter, this dish is actually quite healthy and can be a great alternative to indulgent comfort foods. You don't have to sacrifice flavor either; try adding nutritional yeast or roasted garlic for some extra zing!
Chocolate
Chocolate is a good source of magnesium, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. And chocolate also has many antioxidants that help fight free radicals in your body, preventing disease and aging. Chocolate may lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Chocolate helps you feel happy! Chocolate contains phenylethylamine (PEA), a chemical similar to amphetamine that triggers the release of endorphins--those feel-good chemicals that make us happy when we exercise or have sex. PEA produces similar sensations as cocaine but without any negative side effects such as addiction, anxiety, or paranoia--so go ahead and indulge!
Pizza
Pizza is a good protein and fiber source, making it a healthy choice. However, you should choose your toppings carefully to avoid too many calories and fat.
Pizza is also an excellent source of calcium, iron, and vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene). It also contains small amounts of vitamin C and potassium.
One slice of pizza contains about 100 calories and 10 grams of protein. It also provides 3% of the daily value for calcium, 8% for iron, and 10% vitamin A.
Burgers
The humble burger is one of America's favorite comfort foods. It's easy to see why--the combination of meat and bread is delicious, and burgers are a good source of protein. But there are some things you should know about burgers before you dig in.
If you're eating at home, choose ground beef that's 85% lean or higher (you can find this information on the package). When ordering out, opt for grilled burgers over fried ones; they'll be healthier without sacrificing taste! Burgers made with processed meats like bacon or sausage should also be avoided--these products contain nitrates, which have been linked to cancer risk in humans by the World Health Organization (WHO).
While enjoying your delicious meal at home or out on the town, remember: balance is key! Ensure your diet includes plenty of fruits and vegetables daily, along with other nutrient-rich foods like whole grains.
Ice cream
Ice cream is one of the most popular comfort foods out there. It's also one of the least healthy, especially when eating it excessively.
But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy ice cream occasionally without worrying about gaining weight or getting sick. Here are some tips for eating ice cream without going overboard:
- Eat small servings--one or two scoops or less (about 1/2 cup) is good for most people to enjoy without overdoing it. If you want more than that, try splitting it with someone else!
- Go for low-fat varieties whenever possible--they have fewer calories than full-fat ice creams do and still taste great! Some brands even offer interesting flavors like Greek yogurt or coconut milk-based options if those appeal more to you than traditional vanilla flavors."
These foods are good for you, but eating them in moderation is important.
It's important to remember that these foods are good for you, but eating them in moderation is also important. They can be high in calories and fat, which means they can be addictive if you eat too much. If you're trying to lose weight or watch your calorie intake, avoid these comfort foods until your goal is met.
Conclusion
While it may seem like these foods are bad for you, they can actually be healthy if you eat them in moderation. If you want to enjoy these treats without feeling guilty, try making some of your own at home or choosing healthier options when eating out at restaurants.
