Vindicate Your Vices With A Healthy Twist

We all have our vices. We also all harbour our own love / hate relationship with them. They can make a special occasion all the more special, put a delightful punctuation mark on a quiet moment alone and give us that warm feeling that only comes with occasional indulgence. The trouble with vices, however, is that they can get the better of us. Most of the things we hate to love can be addictive and lead to a range of consequences to our health. At best they can facilitate the piling on of a few extra pounds but at worst they can have a seriously detrimental effect on our health, leading to a range of serious (and potentially fatal) illnesses from cancers and heart disease to diabetes.

But do not despair, taking the steps toward a healthier life needn’t leave you dejected and miserable, munching forlornly on a kale leaf while the audible rumble of your belly rings in your ears. Here are just a few of the ways in which you can enjoy the sensual pleasure of your favourite indulgences without the health consequences…

Make your next burger vegan

What’s tastier, more satisfying and more comforting than a greasy, cheese dripping double cheeseburger? But with that delicious indulgence comes a whole lot of saturated fat not to mention the refined carbohydrates in that sugary bun.

Make your next burger healthier and more ethically sound by substituting the beef patty for a plant-based alternative using soya or seitan (a gluten based meat alternative). Not only will our bovine compatriots thank you, you’ll also get a whole lot of protein without the saturated fat. Substitute cheese for a vegan alternative made from healthy coconut oil and add a wholemeal bun for a healthier carb.

Escape to vape

Nobody needs reminding of the health dangers of cigarettes but for those of us who’ve spent a lifetime indulging this habit, it can be a tough one to kick. Using vaping solutions like Suorin Air can be a healthier alternative as well as a means to help kick the habit for good. Vaping gives you the nicotine fix you crave without the harmful cocktail of carcinogens associated with cigarettes.

Count the calories in your coffee

A caffeine jolt from your favorite coffee outlet is a great way to start the day, as well as an enjoyable pick-me-up on the way home from work. But coffee lovers can find themselves piling on hidden calories, especially at this time of year when the allure of the pumpkin spice latte is at its peak.

Opt for a lower calorie Americano next time you get your coffee fix, instead of the sugary confections of seasonal favorites.

Give in to your dark desires… When it comes to chocolate

We all know that chocolate makes life worth living, but being more discerning in your chocoholism can seriously mitigate this delectable substance’s ill effects on our health. Substitute sugary milk chocolate for its darker alternative which is rich in antioxidants and has even been linked to improved brain function.

Who says that you can’t have the mpre indulgent things in life while also safeguarding your health?