Pizza is a beloved food all around the world. Whether you like it loaded with toppings or prefer a simple Margherita, pizza is a comfort food that’s hard to resist.

However, it’s no secret that pizza isn’t exactly the healthiest food out there. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite treat entirely. In this article, we’ll discuss some healthy post-pizza eating habits you can adopt to stay in shape.

1. Portion Control

The first step to a healthier pizza habit is portion control. Instead of ordering a large pizza, opt for a personal sized one or split one with a friend. When eating pizza at home, use a small plate to limit how much you can serve yourself.

This way, you can indulge in your favorite food without overindulging.

2. Choose a Healthy Crust

The crust is one of the most important parts of a pizza, and it can make all the difference when it comes to your health. Instead of a traditional white flour crust, opt for a whole grain one.

Whole grain crusts provide more fiber and nutrients than their white flour counterparts, and they can also help you feel more full and satisfied after eating.

3. Load Up On Veggies

Pizza toppings don’t have to be limited to pepperoni and cheese. Adding veggies to your pizza not only adds flavor and texture, but it also increases the nutritional value of your meal.

Try loading up your pizza with colorful veggies like peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms to get a variety of nutrients.

4. Cut Back on the Cheese

Cheese is a staple on pizza, but it’s also a major source of calories and saturated fat. To make your pizza healthier, try cutting back on the cheese or opting for a lighter variety like feta or goat cheese.

You can also try substituting cheese with other toppings like olives or artichoke hearts.

5. Skip the Meat

Meat lovers might find this one hard to swallow, but skipping the meat on your pizza can make it significantly healthier. Meats like pepperoni and sausage are high in saturated fat and calories, so going meatless can reduce your calorie and fat intake.

If you can’t imagine pizza without meat, try adding some lean protein like chicken or shrimp instead.

6. Eat Your Pizza with a Salad

If you’re looking to make your pizza meal even healthier, try pairing it with a side salad. Eating a salad before your pizza can help you feel fuller and more satisfied, which can prevent overeating.

You can also try adding some veggies from your pizza to your salad to get even more nutrients.

7. Drink Plenty of Water

When it comes to healthy eating habits, staying hydrated is key. Drinking plenty of water with your pizza can help you feel full and prevent overeating. Plus, water is a much healthier choice than sugary sodas or alcoholic beverages.

8. Avoid Late-Night Pizza Binges

While pizza is delicious at any time of day, late-night pizza binges can wreak havoc on your health. Eating a heavy meal right before bed can interfere with your sleep and also increase your risk of acid reflux.

Try to enjoy your pizza earlier in the evening and allow your body time to digest before going to bed.

9. Don’t Make Pizza a Regular Occurrence

Finally, one of the best ways to maintain a healthy pizza habit is to avoid making it a regular occurrence. While it’s okay to indulge in pizza once in a while, making it a regular part of your diet can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

Try saving pizza for special occasions or enjoying it as an occasional treat.

Conclusion

With a few healthy eating habits, you can enjoy pizza without sacrificing your health. By controlling your portions, choosing healthier crusts and toppings, and pairing your pizza with nutritious sides, you can indulge in your favorite food guilt-free.