Food cravings develop naturally over time. You try to eat as healthy as possible, but more often, junk food becomes a dominant part of daily consumption. But eating junk food frequently increases the risk of known health complications. One of the main reasons is that junk food is readily available, cheaper than healthier alternatives, and is tasty to eat. So here are 10 guilt-free, moderately beneficial junk foods and quick eats that one can enjoy.

Popcorn
Corn kernels are the go-to snack for movie nights and binge-watch series sessions. And the best part is that you can have a tub full of popcorn and not worry about significant health issues. Popcorn is one of the best whole grain sources of nutrition that is easily digested. Of course, you’ll have to limit the amount of butter, cheese, and caramel toppings as these additives contain unhealthy fats.

Pretzels
This is one of the most preferred salty junk foods to have occasionally without worrying about calories and carbs. Though pretzels don’t add any nutritional value, this snack, consumed in moderation, helps curb those hunger pangs.

Nachos
Nachos topped with cheese and a ton of red chili salsa is considered unhealthy junk food. But it is absolutely fine to eat plain salted nachos in moderation with some homemade salsa that is low in sodium and contains no additives. It is even better if these nachos are baked instead of deep fried to up the healthy factor.

Potato chips
Store-bought potato chips are not the best option here to eat. But homemade potato chips that contain no additives or preservatives are okay to have occasionally. As long as fried foods don’t contain MSG, a common additive that gives processed foods flavor, you’ll be fine.

Beef jerky
Red meats are considered unhealthy, especially when broiled, deep fried, smoked, or barbequed. But beef jerky is prepared in a healthy manner, which makes this junk food fine for consumption. The meat is trimmed of all fats and dried naturally to curate a salty-flared snack. It is fine to consume jerky in moderation.

Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is a healthier option than other forms of chocolate. This guilty pleasure is actually quite okay to consume in moderation. With more than 65% cacao found in all forms of dark chocolate, this snack is also a rich source of antioxidants like polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins. You’ll also eat less of this type because it can taste bitter due to the high chocolate-to-sugar ratio.

Graham crackers
Switch to Graham crackers instead of store-bought cookies and other baked confectionaries. These baked crackers contain less sugar and additives and are made from whole wheat grain to boost fiber and vitamin intake. Whole grain crackers help curb those hunger pangs that can lead to unhealthy snacking.

Cheese
You must avoid unnecessary consumption of processed cheese toppings used on a pizza, subway sandwiches, nachos, or hamburgers. But some types like mozzarella, blue cheese, feta, ricotta, cottage cheese, Parmesan, and Swiss cheese are nutrient-friendly options to substitute processed cheeses. In its natural form, cheese is a good source of calcium and vitamin K2, all essential nutrients that promote bone health.

Burritos
It is quite harsh to consider burritos as junk food because these wraps filled with healthy leafy greens, carbohydrates, and nutrients pack a well-balanced meal. Common fillings for a burrito include ground and cooked meat, beans, and salsa stuffed in a tortilla wrap. Tortillas are also low in calories. Vegetarian burritos can also be made with vegetables, rice, and guacamole.

Popsicles
It’s hard to resist a popsicle, especially when the outdoors practically turns into an oven baking everyone on the planet at the peak of summer heat. But you can certainly enjoy a few of these sugary treats as they have little to no fat, preservatives, or additives. Popsicles come in a variety of flavors, too, and contain no more than 40 calories per piece. You can make popsicles at home with flavored water and a popsicle tray to create your own assortment of chilling ice pops.

While many of these foods are okay to consume regularly in moderation, you must consult a certified nutritionist to understand the pros and cons of certain binge-worthy junk foods. Since these foods add no nutritional value, it becomes even more important to include foods, beverages, and supplements that boast healthy body functions.