We focus a lot on healthy eating and fueling our bodies to lead strong, healthy lives. However, healthy eating doesn’t mean kicking sweets to the curb. There are plenty of ways to satisfy a sweet tooth around the clock while making choices that will ultimately improve your well-being and even joint health!
We’ve compiled some delicious concoctions to appease any snacker. Whether you prefer super sweet or a sweet and salty combo, there is a tasty treat waiting for you!
Dark Chocolate
We couldn’t leave chocolate off the list! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce heart disease while satisfying your sweet tooth. Treat yourself to high-quality chocolate and enjoy a few squares for a sweet and satisfying treat.
Frozen Yogurt
Instead of reaching for ice cream, opt for frozen yogurt instead. Frozen yogurt has less fat content and calories, leaving more room for fun toppings like fruits, granola, and dark chocolate. If you don’t have a frozen yogurt shop near you, you can make your own chilly yogurt-style treat!
On a baking sheet lined with parchment, spread a thick layer of Greek yogurt. Then top with your favorites. We recommend topping it with fresh-cut strawberries, blueberries, granola, and a drizzle of honey. Place in the freezer and allow to solidify for a few hours. Once it’s frozen, you can break it apart and enjoy it! Store leftovers in the fridge.
Fruit Smoothies
Fruit smoothies are a great way to get your fruit in while enjoying nature’s candy. While this blended treat will help curb sweet cravings, using fruits with anti-inflammatory properties adds another health benefit. Mix together fresh berries and oranges to incorporate both vitamin C and fiber. You may even want to throw in a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy fruit smoothie!
Peanut Butter
A versatile and delicious source of protein, peanut butter is fantastic snack addition. Its subtle sweetness allows for it to be paired with any food from celery to graham crackers. Add a tablespoon or two to a sliced apple for a crunchy snack or go for the classic ‘ants on a log,’ which is peanut butter on top of celery with raisins. Whether you incorporate peanut butter into your snack or take in a spoonful, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and fill you up.
Trail Mix
The ultimate sweet and salty. If you’re someone who looks to balance out each meal or snack, a curated trail mix may be the way to go. Start with a nut base. Using nuts like almonds, peanuts, pecans, and walnuts is a great way to incorporate fiber, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fats into your diet (and positively impact your joint health!).
Once you’ve determined which nut mix suits you, add in the sweetness! Dried fruits, dark chocolate candy pieces, shredded coconut, and even candied nuts can add that satisfying sweetness.
No matter your preference, there is a way to curb sugar cravings and indulge in foods that not only taste great but fuel your body. We also love that so many joint-healthy foods can be incorporated to give you added benefits to your treats. So, what will you snack on this summer?
If you are living with chronic knee, hip, or shoulder pain that’s preventing you from enjoying life as you age, you can complete the form below to request your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for AROmotion which has helped more than 2,000 patients stop their joint pain fast without surgery.
