How to Make Pizza Healthier

Hello, pizza lovers! If there’s one food that has captured people’s hearts and taste buds worldwide, it’s pizza. The delicious combination of cheese, sauce, and various toppings makes it hard to resist enjoying a warm, cheesy slice. However, for those health-conscious folks striving to maintain a balanced lifestyle, the question arises: can pizza fit? Let’s take a further look at the nutritional values of pizza so you can feel more confident answering that question.

What makes pizza unhealthy?

While pizza is not typically labeled as healthy, each slice offers nutritional benefits.  For example, tomato sauce is rich in lycopene, beta-carotene, and Vitamin C, and that delicious layer of mozzarella cheese provides calcium and phosphorous.  Some pizza crusts may pack a little nutrition, too, from things like hidden vegetables, whole grains, or seeds. 

However, sometimes, pizza’s nutritional benefits can be overshadowed by some of its less healthy components. We’re talking about processed meats, saturated fats, and salt. Processed meats like bacon, sausage, ham, and pepperoni have unfortunately earned themselves a not-so-great reputation regarding our health yet remain popular in our pizza orders. Studies have linked these meats to an increased risk of health issues, including cancers and heart disease. And let’s not forget about sodium, also known as salt, which can be found in cheese, sauce, and those processed meat toppings.

Is there a way to include pizza in a healthy lifestyle?

We think so!  In our eyes, food choices can be a balance of yummy and nourishing foods. It’s all part of finding the balance that works for you.  Using our app can help you understand how often you’re eating pizza.  If it’s frequent, you may want to rethink how you’re eating the pizza, which we will get into in a bit. If it’s more on occasion, you may decide to enjoy your typical slice as is. Either way, we support you!

Is it risky to view foods as either good or bad?

It can be.  For some, the labeling of good and bad can initially help set boundaries and accountability when changing behaviors.  However, long term, there may be better strategies. Attaching morality to your food choices can lead to imbalanced eating habits and sometimes restriction-binge cycles.  It’s important to remind yourself that poor health is never the result of one meal but rather repetitive eating behaviors and choices. By understanding your typical eating patterns, you can make more impactful changes that benefit your health and well-being.

6 Tips for a Healthier Pizza

While making more meals at home helps to control the quality of ingredients, the way it’s prepared, and the portion sizes, sometimes eating out is what needs to happen.  Whether grabbing take-out, browsing the freezer section, or deciding to make one at home, here are some ideas to make your pizza order a little healthier.

1. Skip the meat; Order vegetables as toppings instead.  Try roasting or sauteeing your vegetables before adding them to your pizza; the extra effort goes a long way with the flavor.
2. Add red pepper flakes for a kick of spice without any adding extra salt
3. Go for a thinner crust to reduce calories and carbohydrates per serving.  You can also get creative with the crust.  See if you can find a whole grain option higher in fiber or one made from vegetables like cauliflower, sweet potato, or dark leafy greens.
4. Ask for light cheese to reduce the fat and salt.  If making at home, choose low-sodium cheeses like fresh mozzarella, goat cheese, feta cheese, or ricotta. 
5. Read the nutrition facts to keep an eye on the salt per serving. Some brands or flavors may vary a ton even if they contain similar ingredients.
6. Fit in an extra serving of leafy greens by topping your cooked pizza with a handful of fresh arugula.

The Bottom Line

Making healthier choices doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. By implementing these ideas, you can still savor those delicious flavors of pizza while still prioritizing your well-being.