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How many of you have wished for a day when you can eat anything you want (read burgers, pizzas, pastas, hotdogs, and more)? Well, it seems like your wish has come true as we celebrate National Junk Food Day today on July 21, 2022. Yes, a day like this does exist! Dedicated to the foods we like to snack on, if you are on a diet and have been planning to cheat due to those cravings, this is your cue! In a world that is becoming more and more conscious of diets and lifestyle, consuming junk food is mostly seen as a sin. But well, what are cheat days for after all? Junk foods are basically processed foods that have negligible nutrients and high calories. Usually, they are high in sugar, salt, and fat, and brands sell them by making them look and enjoyable by taste. Processed products such as gum, candy, sugary desserts, carbonated beverages, fried fast foods are examples of junk foods.
While it is true that most junk foods are unhealthy, one can always make it healthy when consumed wisely, and made consciously. After all, what’s the harm in giving a bit of a healthy spin to your favourite junk food? Nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin Bi2, folate, protein, calcium, iron, and other essential nutrients are all found in many junk foods, just in little quantities. And well, these are all beneficial for our body. So if you are a foodie and love to indulge in junk food, we’ve got five junk foods that are not only going to tantalise your taste buds, but are also packed with nutrients.
1. Dark Chocolate
Yes, you read it right. Chocolates aren’t exactly unhealthy, if they are dark and eaten in control. Dark chocolates contain less sugar comparatively, and are thus one of the most popular healthy junk foods. Moreover, these bitter chocolates are packed with protein and fibre, and taste so intense that you just can’t overeat them. Chocolate bars made from 70% cocoa are suited well.
2. Popcorn
Your favourite movie night snacks are made from whole grain, making them not just healthy, but also make you feel full. A healthier way to binge on this snack is to make it at home using store-bought popcorn kernels. This way, you can control the amount of oil or butter, and also experiment with several seasonings. From chili powder, cinnamon sugar, and parmesan cheese to lot more can be your choice.
3. Sweet Potato Fries
Well, sweet potato is one sweet thing that is never going to harm you, if consumed in control, of course. Since the sweet in its name doesn’t indicate that it has high sugar content. Sweet potato is aways a healthier alternative to regular potatoes, and when craving some fries this can be a perfect option.
4. Cheese
You didn’t expect this one, did you? Cheese makes everything delicious, but did you know that it isn’t cheese that is unhealthy but what you add it to, and how much you add it, is the real culprit. All varieties of cheese are a great source of protein and calcium. Hard and aged ones, such as Parmesan or sharp cheddar, is the best choice you can go for. To add to their benefits, eat them with nuts or fruit. It will give you a boost of vitamins
5. Tortilla Chips and Salsa
No, you don’t need to buy the packaged tortilla chips. In fact, you can make them at home with so little effort and time. Find some tortilla flatbread at your local supermarket, cut them up and air-fry them. Throw in some garlic, onions, pepper, cilantro, and tomatoes into a blender and switch it to medium. Add some lime to the finished paste, and your tasty and wholesome snack is ready to be noshed. Wasn’t that super easy?
So which junk food are you going to try today?
