What can I eat instead of comfort food when I'm stressed?

Some people enjoy something crunchy when they are stressed, others prefer somthing with a creamy texture.  Regardless of which you prefer, try to think of foods which are healthy and low calorie.  If you want something crunchy think about fruits and vegetables which are crunchy like carrots, celery or apples.  If you prefer a creamy texture, you could make a thick smoothie with greek yogurt, banana and other fruit.  There are many other options.  Just think healthy and low calorie.  If you would like to look at non-food options for reducing your stress, there are many different alternatives.  You could take a walk, do some yoga, meditate, shadow box or any other physical activity which releases stress.

There isn't a day that goes by when I don't have a craving for chocolate. Yours may be for bread, pasta, ice cream, cheese or something salty. If we indulge excessively it can cause weight gain and can ultimately lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Satisfy those "guilty pleasures" in a healthier way:

Eating After Dinner

We just finished a great dinner and within a couple of hours we are scavenging through the cupboards, fridge and freezer. Keep your calories before bed to no more than 200. For a healthier snack try a bowl of yogurt and fruit; a slice of cheese and crackers; or an apple with 1 tbsp. of peanut butter.

Salty Cravings

Pretzels, potato chips and beef jerky are favorites to enjoy while watching TV or sitting in front of your computer. Salt makes you want more salt and these foods are leading causes of high blood pressure. I like to make my own popcorn and add some sea salt. Forget the packaged, high-sodium popcorn. Try steamed edamame with a sprinkle of sea or kosher salt or 1 oz. of cheese and crackers.

Substitutes for Anything With Sugar

Gummy bears, Twizzlers, Skittles and Starbursts are addictive and nutritionally empty. When have you ever stopped at one? The sugar gives us a momentary rush then a crash. Try sweet fruit like watermelon, strawberries or melon. Dried fruit, if kept to a minimum, also satisfies a sweet tooth. A bowl of multi-grain cereal with added fruit also quiets a sugar craving.

Creamy Dips for Veggies

You sit down to a healthy bowl of veggies and wreck it all with a high-fat dip made with excess oil, mayonnaise or hydrogenated fats. Try different flavors of hummus such as red bell pepper, garlic flavored and even pesto hummus. Try exotic vegetables and you'll have one nutritious and delicious snack.

Crunchy Food Substitutes

That crunch in your mouth is very satisfying when munching. Chips, pretzels and popcorn do the trick. How about getting a healthier crunch from a handful of nuts adding dried fruit? Or pop your own popcorn by placing a handful of kernels in a paper bag and microwaving for three minutes. Add some kosher salt and a light spray of vegetable oil and you have a longer lasting snack.

Sweet Beverages High in Calories

Are you trying to get off pop, soda and fruit cocktail beverages? It's easy to down a couple of these sugared drinks in one sitting. Try Perrier or soda water along with some ice and sliced lemons, limes or oranges; a healthy substitute for those sugar beverages.