7 practical strategies for maximizing the nutritional value of your pizza.

While pizza is commonly viewed as a high-calorie and unhealthy comfort food, food experts argue that it has its benefits.

A healthy meal option for the whole family that also satisfies cravings is pizza.

Two registered dietitians shared with Planet Chronicle Digital their tips for choosing a healthier pizza and the toppings to steer clear of.

To make your next slice stand out, follow these steps.

1. Pick a better crust

For your next pizza, consider choosing a whole wheat or veggie-based crust.

Hallee Acquanita, MS, a registered dietitian with Anne Till Nutrition Group in Raleigh, North Carolina, stated that switching from a traditional white flour crust to a whole wheat or veggie-based crust is a game-changer.

Whole wheat crusts are rich in fiber, promoting digestion and prolonging satiety, as she observed.

Acquanita continued, "Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a suitable choice for individuals monitoring their carbohydrate consumption."

Veggie-based crusts, such as zucchini and cauliflower crusts, typically have low levels of carbohydrates and calories.

A simple swap can decrease your carb content.

Opting for a thin crust can lead to a healthier pizza.

Acquanita stated that while "deep dish pizza" is a popular American dish, it contains more calories than a regular crust, and thin crust has even fewer calories.

This simple swap can decrease your carb content, too.

2. Load up on veggies

Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and tomatoes to your pizza enhances its taste and nutritional value without increasing calorie intake.

Acquanita stated that adding vegetables to a pizza not only enhances the taste but also provides nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the meal.

You can also order fruit on your pizza for some extra zing.

Pineapple, for example, can add some sweetness to your meal.

3. Choose lean proteins

Acquanita advised against consuming highly processed meats such as sausage and pepperoni, and instead recommended opting for leaner protein sources like chicken, ground beef, or turkey.

Fats that can lead to high cholesterol levels and increase overall risk for heart disease are lower in lean proteins, she said.

For non-meat eaters, plant-based choices like tofu can be a way to boost the protein.

Tofu can be a great source of protein for individuals who do not consume meat.

4. Lower the cheese content

A pizza's cheese is loved by many people.

Acquanita warned that cheese, although tasty, is high in saturated fat and calories.

Acquanita recommended considering asking for "light cheese" or choosing a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella or feta.

Swapping out one ingredient can significantly reduce the overall calorie content and saturated fat intake, which can greatly benefit heart health.

5. Add fresh herbs

Elevate your pizza's taste by adding fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, and parsley to your order.

These enhance the flavor while also boosting the nutritional value.

Acquanita stated that herbs contain antioxidants which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting overall wellness.

6. Consider the size of your slices

Scaling down your pizza size could be a healthier route.

A medium pizza has smaller slices than a large pizza, so switching from a large to a medium pizza can result in saving approximately 100 calories per slice, according to Kelly Homesley, a registered dietitian at Novant Health Bariatric Solutions in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Homesley pointed out that while many people pay attention to the number of slices they choose, the size of each slice is often overlooked.

7. Pass on creamy dipping sauces

Some pizza shops serve ranch or blue cheese sauces with pizza for dipping.

Homesley stated that using this could increase your meal's calorie count by up to 250 and add a significant amount of extra fat.

She suggested choosing a lower calorie alternative like marinara sauce if you want to dip your pizza.

Other ways to enhance a pizza dinner

Adding the right side dish or accompaniment can elevate your pizza meal.

Here are some ideas to elevate your favorite pizza dinner.

Instead of having more slices, add a high-fiber salad with lots of veggies and a lower calorie dressing like balsamic vinaigrette, advised Homesley.

Hummus-dipped raw veggies are a nutritious addition to any meal.

Instead of finishing your meal with a traditional dessert, she recommended eating fresh fruit, which is rich in fiber and nutrients, to satisfy your hunger.