10 Alternatives for Healthy Weight-Loss Foods You Hate

You can avoid what you dislike without hurting 

your pound-dropping efforts.

Sometimes, no matter how good you know a food is for you, you just can’t stomach it. And that’s okay! You don’t have to love every single superfood that seems like the next big thing. “You’ve probably heard a lot of buzz about how healthy certain foods are for you," says Amanda Bontempo, M.S., R.D, an ambulatory oncology dietitian at New York University Langone Medical Center. "While we love these foods—and they’re famous for a reason—they are certainly not the be all, end all of a healthy diet.” Instead of just slashing a gross-out item from your grocery list, here’s what you can replace it with.


Substitute Cauliflower for Kale
Even though many superfoods have landed on the scene, it can often seem like kale has nabbed the number one spot. If you’re not into this veggie, you can still get the health-boosting benefits if you sub in some cauliflower. “Both kale and cauliflower are part of the cruciferous vegetable family that contains glucosinolates, which help eliminate disease-causing toxins and control hormones,” says Bontempo. The glucosinolates have sulfur, which is what gives these vegetables their signature smell. “Be careful not to overcook them because that may deplete some of the nutrients,” says Bontempo. “Try sautéing or roasting.”

Substitute Shrimp for Eggs
Eggs are obviously a breakfast staple (thankfully there are tons of other a.m options if you’re not into ‘em!). When it comes to getting that dose of protein in other ways, turn to shrimp. “Eggs and shrimp are some of the few food sources of choline, which is essential for optimal memory, detoxification of the liver, and nervous system activity,” says Bontempo.

Substitute Nut Butter for Almonds
It feels like one of those perennial nuggets of health wisdom: Almonds make a great snack. And what if you don’t like them? Nut butters, which can range from cashew to sunflower seed, belong on your list. “They’re milder in flavor, but their protein and healthy fat will help keep you full,” says Bontempo. They’re especially useful if your aversion to almonds comes from a texture issue—no crunch.

Substitute Turkey for Grilled Chicken
A grilled chicken breast on your salad every day can get so old, you might forget why you loved it in the first place. Lean turkey to the rescue! “Both of these are very low in fat. Although turkey is often overshadowed by chicken, it’s just as high in protein,” says Bontempo. Even better, it’s versatile, too. “It’s perfect to throw into soups, sandwiches, and salads.”

Substitute Blueberries for Apples
If you can’t fathom why anyone ever thought to call it a “Red Delicious,” you can still reap some of apples’ health benefits from other sources. Blueberries, for instance, are also a fantastic way to get some of an antioxidant called quercetin. “It improves cardiovascular health and encourages healthy blood flow,” says Bontempo. It also inhibits the enzyme that is key for cortisol release, so it protects your mind and body from the damage stress can do.

Substitute Kefir for Almond Milk and Yogurt
We’ve been touting yogurt’s health benefits for some time now, but it can be a polarizing food. Some people just can’t choke it down! If you’re one of them, try kefir or almond milk instead “Kefir is a great drinkable alternative to yogurt with the same probiotic benefits,” says Bontempo. “If you’re cutting back on dairy, try using almond milk, which is still a good calcium source. As an added benefit, a whole cup only has 30 calories.”

Substitute Tahini for Avocado
“Avocado has heart-smart monounsaturated fats and helps lower harmful cholesterol,” says Bontempo. Still not into this green goodness? “Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, also provides these heart-healthy fats. It’s also a good source for minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium.” The easiest way to try it is in a delicious dressing you can make at home.

Substitute Flaxseeds for Salmon
Salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, but flaxseeds are non-fishy way to consume them. “Since two tablespoons provide five grams of fiber, these will also help keep you full and alleviate constipation,” says Bontempo. Hint: They’re perfect in smoothies.

Substitute Rainbow Carrots for Peppers
Bell peppers pack a healthy punch that carrots can also deliver. Bonus: They can come in really gorgeous colors, too. “Like bell peppers, carrots are also high in anti-inflammatory vitamin C,” says Bontempo. “They’re healthy complex carbohydrates that provide a variety of phytochemicals and antioxidants like beta carotene and lutein from the jewel-toned pigments.” Complex carbs digest more slowly so you feel fuller longer. Antioxidants and phytochemicals help your body fight free radicals.

Substitute Edamame for Beans
If the texture of beans throws you off, edamame can be an easy swap to make. “It’s equally high in protein and fiber,” says Bontempo. It actually wins out, too, because it’s a complete source of protein. That means it provides all the essential amino acids, which beans don’t. Plus, their pretty pale green color makes for some Insta-worthy salads.

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