While cheese burgers and hot dogs are delicious, they aren't the healthiest choice. There are many ways to get all the nutrients the body needs, while still eating something that tastes great.

Breakfast alternatives

            Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day so make sure to stay away from foods high in sugar and fat to ensure a healthy start. Try some of these to ensure great energy and satisfaction to last through a busy schedule. Try whole grain toast with low fat butter, instead of normal white bread with artificially flavored jelly high in sugar. A good substitution is also drinking Fat Free or 2% milk as opposed to whole milk. If you want something to fill you up try oatmeal with fresh fruits instead of high sugar cereals.

Lunch alternatives

            Lunch is typically the biggest meal of the day, and students are often limited to school lunches. Knowing the right choices to make while in the school line will increase the body’s power and energy throughout the day with a few smart choices. Try turkey or chicken on whole grain bread, instead of ham or processed white bread. For a lighter option, try a very green salad with light vinegar or olive oil instead of high fat dressings such as ranch. Found at a Whole Foods or Nutrition Smart, light or vegan mayonnaise with mustard, instead of regular mayonnaise and mayo.

Snack alternatives

            Snacks should not be taken as an opportunity to eat something sugary or unhealthy. Try to stick to the simple low calorie snack, such as baked fries or chips instead of having them fried, “Fried food is not good because it is fried in oil which has a lot of fat and kills the nutrients in the food”, said Vanessa Garcia, a nutrition student at the University of Florida. For those sugar cravings, go for fresh fruit (banana, pears, apple) instead of salty chips or candy. For a salty, regular snack try nuts and almonds instead of high calorie protein bars.

Dinner alternatives

            Dinner is thought to be the meal where the most food should be consumed, when in reality, it’s supposed to be the smallest meal. When choosing dinner portions, go for something the size of your hand, “This is important because it allows your brain to receive the response from your stomach that you’re full, without eating to much”, said Garcia. These next few foods can be just as filling while still being the correct proportion. Baked chicken instead of fried or grilled. For something filling that will last a long night out, try chicken, fish or tofu instead of red meat. If it’s quick meal, fresh veggies instead of canned ones does just the trick. Even for those afternoon carbs, try whole grain pasta or rice instead of the regular kind.

Drink alternatives

            One way to cut down on calories completely is to take away all sodas and fruit juices. Here are some tricks to healthier drinks. A way to start is by drinking tea instead of coffee. Maybe go for the natural vegetable juices instead of fruit juices to help cut down on all the sugar. However, to sweeten the drink, try to use honey or agave syrup instead of white sugar.