Last week we discussed Four Healthy Snacks; today we look at four snacks to avoid, and offer healthier alternatives. 

1. Doughnuts. High in sugar, trans-fats, calories and refined flour, doughnuts are not only bad for your waistline, but bad for your energy levels as well. The high sugar content is likely to end in a midday crash. If you crave a doughnut, try a piece of whole-grain bread with some jam and peanut butter instead.
2. Soft Drinks. There just isn't anything nutritious about soda, whether it's diet or regular. Instead of a soda, try some sparkling water with a bit of fruit juice - you'll get the carbonation without all the empty calories.
3. French Fries. Actually anything fried - from chicken to potatoes to onions to cheese - should be avoided. Deep-fried foods contain altered fats that are detrimental to the body. If you want finger foods, opt for carrot and celery sticks.
4. Instant Soup. Very high in sodium, instant soup generally offers little health benefit in proportion to its sodium count. Your total daily intake of sodium should not exceed 2,400 mg and one serving of instant soup contains around 500 mg (some kinds of Ramen-style soup are even worse, offering up about one-third of a day's recommended sodium.) A better option is low-sodium vegetable broth with part whole wheat and buckwheat noodles such as Japanese soba or udon.

Eating Too Much Junk Food?
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