Pic source: http://jess3.com/snowpocalypse/

As you begin or continue your shopping for storm Juno or as many are calling, snowpocalypse, keep yourself healthy, well-fed and well-nourished by avoiding some classic snowstorm favorites. Here are my top 6 healthier swaps & tips for purchasing healthfully sourced and packaged foods that have more nutrients than the classic snowstorm go-to’s.

Healthier swaps for classic snowstorm favorites:

1. Pasta:

Make the switch from white to whole wheat, or from rice pasta to brown rice or quinoa-based; you’ll add extra fiber and protein with these easy and healthy swaps. Pasta can last a long time in the cabinet, so you might as well get one that you feel good about eating.

2. Beans:

Beans are a snow-storm favorite- after all you can make chili, soups, main dishes- and they last for a really long time on the shelf. Most beans that are ready to use are sold in cans lined with BPA or other nasty chemicals- so instead, aim to purchase dry beans, beans sold in paper boxes (also known as tetra-paks) or at the very least from a BPA-free can.

3. Vegetables:

Who says you can’t have veggies in a snowstorm? If you want to avoid purchasing fresh vegetables due to fear of spoilage, at least get yourself some frozen vegetables. Frozen vegetables often contain the same (if not better) nutritional profile as fresh vegetables- especially if the fresh veggies have bee sitting on the shelf for a while. Aim to choose frozen vegetables that don’t have any extra-added salt.

Try these veggies:

Brussels Sprout Chips

4. Frozen meals:

They’re loaded with salt and usually a lot of extra chemicals- so instead, aim to either avoid them altogether or choose healthier sourced and made brands like Amy’s. I do get that frozen meals are convenient- but so are leftovers, so I’d seriously consider just making extra batches of your meals (i.e. make chicken and rice and make extra to have for later) and have them on hand as leftovers for later consumption.

5. Fruit:

Like the vegetables, frozen fruits are also a great option- and hey you can make really delish smoothies out of frozen fruit. Here are my favorites- berries, mango, pineapple, and you can even freeze your bananas to go into the blender frozen making for a richer, creamier smoothie.

Try this smoothie:

Banana Mint Chip Smoothie

6. Soup:

You’ll have a lot of extra time if you’ve got a snow day- so plan to make your own soup- it’s super easy! If you really would rather not make your own soup, plan to get a well-sourced brand like Amy’s and always look for the low sodium option. Chicken and vegetable, bean-based (chili, three lentil chili) and others that are vegetable-based are great options.

Try this soup:

Turnip, Apple and Butternut Squash Soup

Stay safe, dry and well fed during Juno, and happy eating!