With the help of hCG, a naturally occurring growth hormone, it has never been easier to keep your cravings under control. That’s because hCG safely and naturally reduces your hunger, especially when paired with the high-protein hCG meal plan.

But even as the pounds fall off, there’s something almost tragic about saying goodbye to your favorite foods. From an ice-cold cola to a big bowl of cheesy pasta, it can be hard to say goodbye to the meals and snacks that make us happy.

In this edition of the HCG Buy Direct blog, we’re going to offer up some healthy substitutions for your favorite junk foods. While not all of our suggestions are a good fit for Phase 2 of hCG, they can help you keep the weight off as you transition into Phase 3 and beyond.

Bacon, Hot Dogs, & Other Processed Meats

It’s no secret that processed foods aren’t as healthy as non-processed foods. But everyone enjoys a good hot dog every now and then, and bacon has become a staple for most people’s mornings.

But instead of cured pork, try healthier meats like tuna, salmon, and roasted chicken breast. If you’ve already been through a round of the hCG meal plan, then you already know that lean meats like these can make you feel full for hours and have just as much protein. They also have a fraction of the fat and sodium!

Oil-fried foods

From deep fried chicken breast to a toasty, buttery grilled cheese sandwich, cooking with oil is a popular way to add big flavor to a dish. But it is also one of the easiest ways to significantly up the calorie count, without having any effect on how full you feel.

Instead of butter or vegetable oil, try cooking more foods on the grill. Open flame isn’t just healthier, but it creates a wonderful flavor that you can’t get anywhere else. Add spices like black pepper, garlic powder, and sea salt to enhance the flavor of any grilled meats.

Can’t let go of those French fries? You can make your own baked fries at home, simply by slicing a potato into strips, boiling them briefly, and then roasting on high. Even better, substitute a zucchini or sweet potato for an even healthier meal.

Morning Doughnuts and Pastries

With all that sugary glaze, it’s no surprise that so many of us are hooked on that morning doughnut score. But with some individual doughnuts hitting 300, 400, or even 500 calories, it’s simply not a good match for someone trying to stay healthy. And add to that the fact that almost no one eats just one doughnut.

Whole-grain toast is a substitute that will keep you feeling full for longer. Try it toasted, without butter, and just a dash of seasoning. A touch of cinnamon can emulate that sugary sweetness that you crave, or a little garlic can create something more savory.

Master the HCG Meal Plan with HCG Buy Direct

If you want to get the most out of your time on the hCG diet, click over to the HCG Buy Direct Blog. That’s where we offer up the latest trips, tricks, and recipes that can supercharge your weight loss journey and keep you looking great.