Many people believe that they should not add croutons to their
salads because of the added carbohydrates. However, croutons can be a
source of energy, fiber, and healthy carbohydrates. Keep in mind that
everyone needs some carbohydrates in order to gain energy each day.

There are many different ways to prepare croutons and some ways are
healthier than others. Before you dress your salad with the crunchy
stuff, be sure to learn how the croutons are prepared. Avoid croutons
that were slathered with butter before baking. However, croutons that
are prepared out of whole wheat bread could be a very healthy source of
nutrients. Also, baked croutons are better than deep-fried croutons.

Salad dressing can contain hundreds of calories, including hundreds
of calories from fat. In many cases, salad dressing negates the
healthiness of a salad in the first place. Before you pour, be sure to
read the salad dressing label in order to determine exactly how many
calories and grams of fat you are adding to your meal.

Using a low-fat salad dressing or oil and vinegar in moderation is a
healthy alternative to eating a completely dry salad. If you wish to
add moisture and flavor without the calories, add tuna or chicken. The
meat will also go a long way to filling you up, as it is a valuable
source of protein.

Diabetics need to be aware of their sugar intakes. Many dried fruits
and berries, including raisins and cranberries, should be consumed in
moderation, even when they are included with a salad.

If you do wish to add a small splash of dried fruit, such as
cranberries, be sure that they are not topped with refined sugar, which
is sometimes included in order to add sweetness.

However, if you want another crunchy texture, try high fiber nuts
like almonds (raw or baked). Also, you can have some sweetness with
sugar replacements like Stevia, and Splenda.