Make your meals healthier without sacrificing flavor with this program

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If there’s one thing we all know about Alabama, the food is unbeatable. From rich, mouthwatering shrimp and grits to flaky, buttery biscuits, everyone knows we do it better. Sadly, food that’s good for the soul isn’t always good for the health of our bodies. Chews Wisely Alabama is a program from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama making it easy for you to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite southern recipes. Read on for top recipes, expert advice and more on the program.

Creating a healthier Alabama

Who among us can resist a heart-warming bowl of chicken and dumplings or a sweet and decadent bite of pecan pie? Alabama is full of southern delicacies that make our home special.

However, after generations of tried-and-true recipes, many of us don’t realize how the buttery ingredients we love so much can take a toll on our health. That’s where Chews Wisely Alabama comes in.

“We really looked at the state, our traditions and the things that make us Alabama. Our eating and southern recipes are really something that we don’t want to stray away from.

Keith Higginbotham, Graphics & Brand Manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

What’s on the menu

We know it’s easy to be skeptical, but the team of dietitians from Blue Cross review your favorite recipes and offer healthier substitutes, all while keeping the flavor. Don’t believe us? Just give them a try.

Our dietitians review recipes and offer healthier substitutes in an effort to maintain the flavor but make them a little heathier.

“Especially in the south, we love our food and butters and all those rich ingredients that make our food as good as they are. A lot of people fear that removing those things takes the flavor with it, but we’ve found a way to maintain that flavor through these recipes.”

Keith Higginbotham, Graphics & Brand Manager, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama

Here’s a sneak peak at some recipes that caught our eye (and our appetites):

Shrimp & Grits

• From breakfast to dinner, there’s no wrong time for shrimp n’ grits. This easy recipe will only take you 30 mins, and you’ll be eating every bite.
• Full recipe.

Tomato Pie

• As the weather warms up, this delectable dish is a staple comfort food. With a walnut crust, this recipe cuts down on fat and adds nutritional value.
• Full recipe.

“Fried” Chicken

• Enjoy the mouthwatering flavor and signature crunch of bone-in fried chicken without the heavy oils.
• Full recipe.

For all you BBQ lovers, there’s even a recipe for that delicious white barbecue sauce we put on just about everything. Check out all the recipes Chews Wisely Alabama has to offer.

Healthier choices on-the-go

When you’re not in your own kitchen, it can feel a little harder to make healthy choices. When you’re taking a look at the menu, there are simple steps you can take to be kinder to your body:

• Opt for foods that are steamed, broiled, baked, roasted, poached, or lightly sautéed or stir-fried
• Split your meal with a friend, or take half of it home for later
• Pick drinks without added sugar, like water, fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, or diet iced-tea, lemonade or soda

Remember, choosing to eat healthier is all about balance. Don’t feel the need to go on a crazy diet—you’re doing your body a favor with every choice you make.

Time to Chews Wisely Alabama

Making strides towards a healthier you is easier than you might think. Pick a recipe, get cooking and you’re already making big steps in the right direction for your mind, body and soul.

Have a recipe all your guests rave about or top tips for eating healthy at home? Chews Wisely Alabama is always accepting new user submitted recipes, eating tips that work for you and more. Submit yours here.

Find out more about the Chews Wisely Alabama program—follow them on Facebook and Instagram and check out the latest recipes.

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