I  don’t even know how to start this post it makes me want to scream so loud. We (as a country along with are neighbors to the south) as SO obsessed with looking skinny that manufactures have invented a whole new type of chemical to make us happy. And I won’t call it food, I refuse. It’s not food. Anything that does not produce calories for your body to use as energy can’t be called food. It’s a chemical that is disguised to taste like food.

So, are low fat, low or no sugar, low calorie foods good for us ? Short answer – In my opinion, no.

1. Calories in these types of treats are replaced with chemicals that provide no nutrients. When you eat, your body expects to receive nutrients. When it does not get these nutrients, it wants them- leaving you feeling hungry and wanting more. So after your sugar free snack – your going to feel hungrier and your cravings will get stronger  – inevitably you will eat more.
2. Many give themselves permission to eat more. If you went into a place like Baskin Robbins, you would order your ice cream- eat your portion and leave- feeling satisfied with your treat – knowing that you just ate something sinful and delicious. But (most of us- not all) have a low fat treat and feel like- “Hey! I can have another! It’s low fat!” And another leads to another and maybe another of something else! It was low fat, right!? Well, after 2 or 3 – low fat it is NOT.
3. And if we’re not talking about the sweet stuff, lower calorie and fat products have to replace what they took out with something so that they still taste good. What do they do ? They take the fat out and they put salt and fillers in. CLICK HERE to read about salt and the effects it can have on your heart. Low fat, low calorie food tends to be VERY high in salt.

Here is my personal opinion, you can take it or leave it!

1. If your going to have a treat, then have a treat!  Something with real food in it! Bake a batch of brownies and have one, bake chocolate chip cookies and have two! Go out for ice cream and have 1/2 a cup! These are foods your body will be able to use properly and know what to do with when you eat them.
2. If your eating the REAL DEAL, your going to have less of it because you know that it is high in fat and calories! Chances are, you will consume less calories and fat then you would have if you opted for the low fat version.
3. If you REALLY REALLY WANT IT – BAKE IT! Anything baked is better for you than out of a box! (In moderation of course) You are putting whole ingredients into your food and you can see exactly what is going in it. It’s kind of hard to imagine a batch of cookies you make at home lasting for a year without going stale. Well, think about the chemicals that have to go into the box of cookies at the supermarket in order to make them have a long shelf life. Its not normal.

***PLUS- there are ways to make homemade baking a little healthier using real food - CLICK HERE to read my healthy baking swaps!***

Leave all the chemical ridden foods behind you! If you want a treat, save up for the real thing!