17 healthier versions of your favorite junk foods that are actually worth buying
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If you're trying to eat healthier, the grocery store can seem like a minefield. Should you indulge in the original junk food you're craving, or go for the healthier alternative brand?
While some swaps aren't worth the money — or the assault on your taste buds — others are smart choices that can satisfy your cravings in a pinch.
INSIDER spoke with Amy Shapiro, R.D., founder of nutrition counseling firm Real Nutrition NYC and Lisa DeFazio, MS, RD celebrity nutritionist and author of "The Women's Health Big Book of Smoothies & Soups" to find out their favorite healthier swaps for your junk food cravings.
Keep in mind that no matter what you're eating, you have to be mindful about how much and how often you eat it. If you're craving one of these junk foods, try the healthier alternative instead.
MAC & CHEESE: Banza
This high-fiber mac and cheese scores points with Shapiro as a great gluten free option. It's made from chickpeas and has 18 grams of protein per serving.
If you're not sensitive to gluten, she also recommends Annie's Organics, ideally the whole grain or whole wheat variety of pasta.
CHIPS: Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips
Shapiro has a few recommendations for your chip fix. One is Siete, a brand which has a few different flavors to pick from. "These chips have whole grains and seeds so more fiber and nutrients," Shapiro told INSIDER.
She also recommends Kettle Potato Chips in Avocado Oil and Sea Snax, popular seaweed snacks with less than a gram of carbs. "Seaweed is loaded with calcium and protein and no carbs so it is great for weight loss, and the same with kale," she said.
BREAD: Dave's Killer Bread
Yes, you can eat bread and still be healthy. Shapiro recommends Dave's Killer Bread or ezekiel bread. The 21 whole grains version of Dave's Killer Bread has 5 grams of fiber and protein.
"Ezekiel is a sprouted bread which means your body will digest it more easily and absorb more of the nutrients," Shapiro says. "Dave's Killer Bread has protein and fiber in it so it will keep you satisfied and not craving more."
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