Eating dessert doesn’t have to be a guilty pleasure. Enjoying dessert, even daily, can be part of a healthy diet. No question that consuming too much sugar is not suitable for your health but denying, but suppressing your sweet tooth may not be ideal for your health.

The effects of added sugar intake can include higher blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and certain liver diseases. These conditions are linked to an increased risk for heart attack and stroke. On the other side of the coin, suppressing cravings for something sweet can be one of the biggest causes of diet failure. Restricting sugar will likely improve your health and fitness goals short term, but it’s not linked to sustained weight loss. Studies show that if you stop consuming sweets altogether in the hopes of achieving a weight loss goal, your success rate is low. Many times this restrictive behavior leads to overindulgence and binge eating.

So, what gives? Many experts agree that balance is key to living a healthy lifestyle long term. When you commit to eating a nutrient-rich diet and exercising regularly, indulging in a portioned controlled dessert can be an integral part of your dietary success.

Desserts As Part Of A Healthy Eating Plan

It’s true. You can have your proverbial cake and eat it too. As long as it doesn’t contain too much added sugar and you are aware of portion size. The right ingredients, when enjoyed in moderation, can make dessert a surprisingly nutritious treat. Desserts don’t have to be synonymous with empty calories.

It’s all about the type of dessert you choose, which stems from the ingredients. Greek yogurt makes an excellent base for a variety of tasty desserts. Fruit nuts, nuts, and dark chocolate are all great options for toppings or garnishment. Learning how to bring a health-conscious dessert to fruition doesn’t have to be complicated. It can satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your weight loss goals.

Dessert Recipes: Healthy Alternatives That Don’t Compromise On Taste

We look at a few staple ingredients that every sweet lover should have on hand. They include greek yogurt, fresh fruit, nuts, and dark chocolate. Use these ingredients to create some dessert recipes below.

1: Ice Cream

Create a homemade option where you control the ingredients. For example, purée a sliced frozen banana, strawberries, or blueberries with a few tablespoons of skim or almond milk. The result will be a frozen yogurt-style treat.

2: Chocolate

If chocolate is your go-to, try drizzling some melted dark chocolate over your favorite fruit to control the amount you consume. Dark chocolate contains flavonols, antioxidants, and minerals.

3: Nuts

If you enjoy a little crunch, try topping your homemade ice cream with some chopped almonds or walnuts. They’re a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fat.

Healthy Desserts

Desserts are a delicious way to treat yourself. Doing so in moderation can be an effective tool for sustained weight loss and long-term health. The key is keeping portions small and focusing on whole food to satisfy your sweet tooth. Getting creative in your sugar fix can be fun when you have the knowledge and tools to do it in a healthy, balanced way. Having a resource to provide you with adequately portioned and curated selections of desserts is a good investment in your health.

Z.E.N. Foods is here when you are ready to commit to a healthier lifestyle. The Z.E.N. standard meal plans offer meals, including health-conscious desserts, that are tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and dietary needs! In addition, our Z.E.N consultants are standing by to help you set up a plan just for you, whether it’s a meal plan or juice cleanse.