Donuts are a favorite snack around the world, but they aren’t exactly known for their health benefits. They contain high amounts of sugar, fat, and calories, which makes them bad for our bodies. What would happen if you swapped out your usual donut for something healthier?
Delicious as donuts may be, there are plenty of other options that are much better for us – and we have put together some of the best alternatives to donuts that are just as delicious but slightly better for health!
Some of the healthiest delicious alternatives to that tasty Boston cream donut include:
1. Banana Bread
Banana bread is a delicious treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. It can also be used in place of donuts when looking for a snack because it has similar properties. Bananas are full of potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, fiber, and vitamin C.
Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and keeps bones strong, while magnesium is essential for energy production and bone growth. Vitamin B6 promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails, fiber aids digestion and helps keep cholesterol levels low, while finally, vitamin C boosts immunity and fights off colds and flu.
The positive traits and health advantages of bananas mean that banana bread can be a great alternative to donuts and a much healthier option.
2. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies are another great alternative to donuts. They’re made with whole grains, so they’re packed with fiber and protein, while oats provide a nice texture and give these cookies a hearty flavor. They’re also very easy to make, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings!
Oats are loaded with nutrients like iron, zinc, and selenium, which help boost metabolism and fight fatigue. They also contain manganese, which helps build strong bones and teeth. Oat bran also contains antioxidants that protect against heart disease and cancer.
The myriad of health benefits found in oatmeal means that tasty oatmeal raisin cookies are a much healthier option than classic donuts – but without the need to sacrifice that all-important delicious sugar rush.
3. Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Apple cinnamon muffins are another great alternative to traditional donuts. Like banana bread, apple cinnamon muffins are a great way to start your day. They’re also a fantastic addition to any party spread, especially during the holidays.
Apple cinnamon muffins are full of vitamins A, C, E, K, and folate, all of which promote good vision, immune system function, and cardiovascular health. In fact, one cup of apples provides more than half of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
Vitamin C is essential for wound healing, collagen formation, and tissue repair. It also supports the body’s natural ability to fight infections and reduce inflammation. In addition, apples contain pectin, a type of soluble dietary fiber that improves bowel regularity and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
4. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Balls
Chocolate chip cookie dough balls are another great alternative to classic donuts. They’re not only delicious, but they’re also incredibly simple to make. You’ll find yourself whipping up batches of these fun treats on a weekly basis.
Chocolate chips are rich in flavonoids, compounds that act as powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants support eye health by protecting the eyes from damage caused by free radicals. Flavonoids also improve circulation, strengthen capillaries, and prevent plaque buildup in arteries.
In addition to their antioxidant qualities, chocolate chips are also high in fiber, which helps control appetite – contrary to what you might expect from chocolate, this actually makes it trickier to overeat!
5. Banana Nut Breakfast Cookies
Banana nut breakfast cookies are an excellent choice when looking for healthy alternatives to classic American donuts – but without sacrificing those all-important delicious sugar rushes.
Banana nut breakfast cookies are packed with protein, fiber, and other nutrients that will keep you feeling energized throughout the morning. Bananas are loaded with potassium, a mineral that promotes muscle contraction and nerve cell activity. Potassium also aids in the production of white blood cells, which play a crucial role in fighting infection. Fiber is also abundant in bananas, helping to lower cholesterol levels and regulate digestive processes.
Finally, walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve brain development and cognitive function. Walnuts also contain plant sterols and phytosterols that can help maintain normal cholesterol levels.
Final Thoughts
The variety of healthy eating options available today is truly amazing – and means that you can give up donuts without feeling as though you are missing out. With our top five alternatives, you can boost your health score without sacrificing a sugar rush!
