7 Healthy Ways to Beat Your Candy Cravings

You know that candy's bad for you, but sometimes a Snickers bar or a bag of Skittles is just calling your name. So what's a girl to do when a craving hits? Simple: Instead of hitting the vending machine, reach for one of these nutrient-packed alternatives suggested by Brooke Alpert, R.D., founder of B Nutritious.

DID YOU KNOW: What Your Food Cravings Say About Your Health

You're Craving: Reese's Cups
The Healthy Swap: 1 oz dark chocolate + 1/2 Tbsp peanut butter
about 250 calories

You'll get lots of healthy antioxidants, some filling protein, and way less sugar.

You're Craving: A Snickers Bar
The Healthy Swap: 1 oz raw almonds + 1 tsp hot cocoa powder
about 200 calories

The hot cocoa mix adds just enough sweetness to the almonds, which are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fat.

BEWARE: The Time You're Most Likely to Binge

You're Craving: Junior Mints
The Healthy Swap: mint tea latte
about 60 calories

Add about half a cup of steamed 2 percent milk to your favorite minty brew for an afternoon pick-me-up that's super low-cal and great for digestion.

You're Craving: A Milky Way
The Healthy Swap: a DIY vanilla latte
about 60 calories

Skip the vanilla syrup, and instead make your latte with a half cup of 2 percent milk and a teaspoon of real vanilla extract. The result: a creamy treat with just a touch of sweetness.

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You're Craving: Skittles
The Healthy Swap: 1 cup frozen grapes
about 100 calories

This may not taste exactly like the rainbow, but it's still sweet and crunchy-and it's a whole lot better for you.

You're Craving: Peanut M&Ms
The Healthy Swap: 1 oz dry roasted peanuts + 1 Tbsp dark chocolate chips
about 230 calories

Look for chocolate chips that are at least 65 percent cocoa. The more cocoa, the less fat and sugar and the more antioxidants!

PLUS: 5 Fatty Foods That'll Make You Skinny

By Robin Hilmantel, Women's Health