Not all condiments are created equally. In fact, the extra flavor you add to your meal might be what pushes the calorie content over the edge. Which condiments are some of the worst for you, and what can you use in their place?
Ranch Dressing
Ranch has long been one of my favorite salad dressings. So in love with it am, I that I use it to dip my pizza crust and occasionally my pretzels, too. Unfortunately, it takes a perfectly healthy salad or veggie tray and turns it into a calorie-fest. Instead of pouring on the Ranch, try diluting it with water and spraying it onto your salad. Or, try a low-calorie ranch-flavored dip instead of the full calorie option.
Mayonnaise
Does your sandwich feel naked without a little mayo…maybe even on both sides of the bread? Don’t be fooled by the great taste; mayonnaise is high in fat and calories, and can make even a healthy sandwich a recipe for caloric disaster. Skip the mayo and put plain yellow mustard on your sandwich instead.
Ketchup
A favorite of my children, ketchup isn’t as healthy as you might expect. While it’s rich in antioxidants, it’s also high in sugar. If your kids need something to dip their chicken into or use on top of their hamburger, try making your own ketchup (more like a salsa) with fresh tomatoes. Or, opt for an organic, no sugar added ketchup variety instead of your typical ketchup brand. Reading the labels is the key.
Hot Sauce
My husband loves nothing more than a little added spice to just about everything he eats. However, the high sodium content of many hot sauce brands is bad for his blood pressure and overall health. Instead of pouring on buckets of hot sauce to spice up your meal, consider adding sliced, fresh jalapeño. You’ll get all the punch without any of the added extras you’ll find in bottled hot sauce.
Sour Cream
You love it on your tacos, your chili, and your beef stroganoff. Sour cream is one of the condiments you’ll never see my refrigerator without. Unfortunately, it’s usually fairly high in calories, especially if you’re generous with your spoonfuls. Instead of topping your next dish with sour cream, try grating a small quantity of fresh cheese on top instead. You won’t need as much to cover your plate. Or, try light sour cream instead.
Don’t let over-the-top condiments ruin your meal with extra calories, fat, sugar, sodium, or worse.