Search HealthCastle.com
 
 

Healthy Sandwich Makeover

Written by Lauren Girdler
Reviewed by
Published in November 2008

healthy sandwich makeover(HealthCastle.com) According to a recent study from Texas A&M University, the average American will eat roughly 200 sandwiches this year. If you are responsible for preparing your children's lunches, you're probably actually making many more than that. With so many sandwiches going to work and school every year, it is important to make sure they're fun and healthy.

Simple Sandwich Makeover

  • Instead of White Bread: If you're using white bread, you're missing out on a variety of nutrients that are found in whole grains, including the B and E vitamins, fiber, iron, and magnesium. However, you don't have to stick to whole grain bread when making sandwiches; there are a variety of other options available, including:
    • Whole grain buns
    • Whole grain pita wraps
    • Whole grain bagels

  • Instead of Mayo: One tablespoon of regular mayonnaise can add over 100 calories and 10 grams of fat to a sandwich - way too much for a condiment! Instead, switch to a low-calorie alternative, like:
    • Mustard
    • Ketchup
    • Low-fat salad dressing
    • Chili sauce
    • Hummus
    • Avocado spread

  • Instead of Processed Meats: Processed meats are high in fat and sodium, making them an unhealthy addition to any sandwich. There are plenty of healthier options to consider when looking for your sandwich filler:
    • Use leftover meat from dinner the night before, including grilled chicken or roast ham or beef.
    • Try tuna or egg sandwiches, but without adding the high-fat mayonnaise.
    • Choose from a variety of soy products, including veggie bologna, pepperoni, ham, and turkey.
    • Add cheese to your sandwich, but use a low-fat variety. Or try soy cheese, which is even healthier and comes in cheddar and mozzarella flavors.

  • Load Up on Vegetables: The more vegetables you can fit in your sandwich, the better! Don't just add boring old lettuce - be creative and try different vegetable combinations to keep your sandwiches interesting. Choose from:
    • Pickles
    • Baby spinach
    • Tomato
    • Mushrooms
    • Bean sprouts
    • Shredded carrots
    • Peppers
    • Onion

The Bottom Line

You are probably eating sandwichs a few times a week, so make sure they are made with healthy ingredients. Use whole grain bread products instead of white bread and switch from high-calorie mayonnaise to condiments like mustard and low-fat dressing. Instead of processed meats, try using leftover dinner meat and soy products. Finally, make sure to pile on those vegetables!


Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape






| Print Page | Bookmark and Share | nutrition tips Feed




8 Healthy Lunch Box Ideas
6 Easy Ways to Make Lunchtime Healthy and Fun
The Best Kids' Drinks to Pack for Back-to-School Lunches



Stay Connected with HealthCastle.com
Facebook YouTube
Twitter Podcast
RSS Newsletter
Pinterest Google


Health Poll
Are you a coffee drinker?
Yes - regularly
Yes - infrequently
No




Categories
Member Area
Book
Corporate
Eating Smart
Cooking Smart
Compare Packaged Foods
Super Foods & Supplements
Health & Nutrition
Life Stages & Sports
Multimedia & Tools
Login
Signup
My Account
Members
Free Nutrition Newsletter
GoUnDiet Book
About GoUnDiet
Free Tools
About Us
Advertise with Us
Legal
Privacy Policy
Contact Us
Press Room
In the News
Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or dietitian. Information and statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
HONcode accreditation seal.
Copyright © 1997-2012 HealthCastle Nutrition Inc. All rights reserved.