Healthy Valentine’s Day Swaps

It’s almost Valentine’s Day – a holiday often associated with decadence. Chocolate, wine, heavy sauces, and such are traditionally hallmarks of the holiday. And while Valentine’s Day may seem like a good occasion to indulge, you don’t have to let the holiday completely derail you from healthy eating patterns.

A few simple swaps can help cut calories, carbs, and sugars for a healthier Valentine’s Day. Incorporate these healthier, yet just as delicious, alternatives into your celebration this year:

Swap the Wine for Champagne

Skip the wine this Valentine’s Day. On average, a large glass of wine has about 220 calories and up to 120 grams of sugar depending on the varietal.

A glass of champagne, on the other hand, averages only about 80 calories per glass. Champagne also contains both red and white grapes like wine, making it a heart-healthy option.

Swap the Heavy Meal for Light Entrees

Skip the high-calorie, high-carbohydrate dinner choices for lighter selections this Valentine’s Day. Instead of pasta opt for zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil or tomato sauce instead of heavy cream sauces. If you’re craving mashed potatoes, try smashed cauliflower instead. Swap red meat for sushi, which is not only low-calorie but contains essential macro-nutrients.

Swap the Chocolate Cake for Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Finish your holiday meal with chocolate-covered strawberries instead of cake. On average, a slice of chocolate cake has close to 370 calories per slice and about 30-50 grams of sugar. Compare that to one serving of chocolate-covered strawberries, which has about 53 calories along with added fiber and other nutrients.

Swap the Sugary Candy for Stevia- Sweetened Candy

Most store-bought Valentine’s Day candy is loaded with sugar, which can wreak havoc on your body, skin, and teeth. But not all candy is created equal. Choose sugar-free candies instead. Sweet treats sweetened with stevia not only have few if any calories, but no carbs as well.

Or better yet, make your own candy at home using Stevita stevia sweeteners. That way, you’ll know exactly how much sugar, carbohydrates, and calories you are consuming. And since stevia actually tastes sweeter than sugar, you won’t be sacrificing taste either.

Browse our library of recipes for inspiration this Valentine’s Day: www.cookingwithstevia.com

Swap feeling weighed down and fatigued from overindulging this Valentine's Day with feeling energetic and healthy when you incorporate our low-calorie, low-carb, and low-sugar menu items into your Valentine’s Day celebration this year.

Happy Valentine’s Day!