Well I have to admit I have a sweet tooth, and a pretty strong one at that. Since eating a bunch of sweets isn’t a good way to fuel your body for health, nor for optimum training and recovery, I have a few alternatives to indulge any sugar cravings.

Here are four quick, easy and nutritious - and sweet - dessert ideas:

1. Pineapple Raspberry Parfait
You’ll need 8 ounces of low-fat peach or vanilla yogurt, 1/4 cup of fresh raspberries and 3/4 cup of fresh, frozen or canned pineapple chunks.
Alternate layers of yogurt, pineapple, yogurt, and raspberries in a tall glass or sundae dish for a gourmet presentation.
Makes 1 serving.

2. Strawberries Dipped in Dark Chocolate
You’ll need 6 strawberries (or more) and dark chocolate for dipping. You can melt dark chocolate chips, bar or dipping chocolate in the microwave. OK I know this is a real sweet - but dark chocolate is high in anti-oxidants. Just limit yourself to a couple of strawberries and share the rest with a friend.

Wash and dry off your strawberries (important: They must be dry). Put chocolate chips or a few chocolate bars in a microwave safe bowl for 10 to 15 seconds. If using chocolate bars, break them into small pieces before putting them into the microwave.

Remove from microwave and stir. If chocolate isn't completely melted, put back into microwave for a few seconds. (important: Don’t overcook chocolate).

Put a piece of wax paper on a tray; hold your strawberries by the stem and dip your strawberries in the chocolate. Place each one on top of the wax-paper-lined cookie sheet and put them in refrigerator to harden for about two hours.

Options: You can use other types of fruit cut into chunks.

3. Frozen Low-Fat Yogurt Popsicles
My kids love these - they even think they’re getting a treat. You’ll need popsicle molds or small disposable cups (like a Dixie cup) and popsicle sticks.

Choose your favorite flavor of low-fat yogurt and pour it into the molds or cups. Freeze overnight and eat when you need something sweet!

4. Frozen Banana Pops
You’ll need 3 firm peeled bananas, a plate of honey, plates of chopped nuts and shredded coconut, 6 popsicle sticks.

Cut each banana in half crosswise. Insert popsicle stick in the cut end of the banana. Brush a little honey over the banana with a pastry brush. Roll each banana into desired topping(s). Arrange on plate; cover with plastic wrap. Store in freezer until ready to eat.

Enjoy your creations!

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Kelli Montgomery, Coach - Wallingford, Connecticut
http://www.ironguides.net
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