8 Healthier Junk Foods to Eat When You Want to Indulge, According to Dietitians

Indulge smarter with these expert-approved snacks.

However, a truly healthy lifestyle occupies the gray spaces of life, embracing balance and moderation.

This grayscale also exists within the realm of junk food itself, with some choices being healthier than others.

chips and salsa on a bowl and plate

Photo:Claudia Totir/Getty Images

This is because it boasts plenty of added sugar and traces of saturated fat.

Higher levels of cocoa in dark chocolate indicate lower sugar and saturated fat content from sweeteners and dairy.

This helps curb cravings while offering a less processed snack.

As another smart practice, look for chocolate-free versions with unsweetened dried fruits.

Cereal

Breakfast cerealreally runs the gambit in terms of healthfulness.

Some varieties offer impressive amounts of fiber and protein, while others are no more than a glorified dessert.

That said, its best to aim for a more nutrient-dense cereal option.

Choose a cereal that is high in fiber and low in added sugars, Landetta suggests.

That said, there are now plenty of healthy options to choose fromif you know what to look for.

Plus, these empty calories contribute toinflammation throughout the body, increasing chronic disease risk.

Look for fewer than three grams of saturated fat per serving of junk food.

Aim for snack foods with 250 milligrams of sodium or less per serving.

These beneficial nutrients promote fullness after eating while supporting basically every body system.