Anyone familiar with me knows I don’t believe in “diet” or “healthy” versions of food… unless you find they actually taste better to you than the original. (Not even “as good as” but better!) Fortunately for me, I love spicy food. So if you’re going to indulge in junk food or fast food, check if your favorite guilty pleasure has a spicy version.
Ounce for ounce, the spicy alternate always has fewer calories and less sodium, carbohydrates, and fat. (Let’s face it: Salt, sugar, and butter/lard are easy ways to add flavor. Spice is a guilt-free way.) This leaves more room for protein and fiber. As an added bonus, all that capsaicin may curb your appetite or at least compel you to eat slower. The foods still might not be healthy, but at least you’ll eat them in a healthier way.
Just as an example, here’s some nutritional info from probably my favorite guilty pleasure.
Photo courtesy of Popeyes
| Mild Chicken Thigh | Spicy Chicken Thigh | |
| Calories |
280 |
260 |
| Sodium (mg) |
640 |
460 |
| Fat (g) |
21 |
18 |
| Protein (g) |
14 |
14 |
| Carbs (g) |
8 |
7 |
| Fiber (g) |
1 |
1 |
Andrew Marin . net 