Pizza is a favorite food for many kids and adults, but how do we keep ourselves and our children healthy while still eating the meal we crave?

Pizza can be made very healthy and still taste great! It is important to get a pizza that is not too greasy and try to get a whole wheat crust if possible. If there is no whole wheat crust available then your next best option is a thin crust, this will cut down on the amount of carbohydrates.

The tomato sauce is generally pretty healthy and the cheese has calcium and protein. The cheese also has a good amount of fat, so it is always a healthy idea to ask for half the amount of cheese or fat free cheese if it is offered.

Ordering from your local joint can even be made more healthy by picking your toppings carefully. The main idea when choosing toppings is to load up on veggies, they are high in vitamins and low in calories. Here are the healthiest toppings on most menus:

RED or GREEN PEPPERS: Peppers not only add flavor, they also add tons of vitamins. They have vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B6. Peppers are also loaded with antioxidants. Peppers are a fairly common topping so they shouldn't be hard to add.

BLACK OLIVES: These contain the healthiest type of fat, which is known to lower cholesterol. Black olives are also a standard topping and are offered at most restaurants.

PINEAPPLE: Some people might not like it on pizza, but give it another try. Pineapple has loads of vitamin C and enzymes that aid in digestion.

MUSHROOMS: They add flavor and texture while providing selenium, riboflavin, and B vitamins.

CHICKEN: This topping is a greta source of protein! The protein will keep you full for a longer period of time. This is a better choice than pepperoni or sausage because it doesn't contain as much saturated fat.

GARLIC: This not be offered everywhere, but it should be. Chopped garlic will add tons of health benefits to your pizza and also packs some great flavor.

ONIONS: The onions will add great robust flavor to your pizza while providing vitamin C, Chromium and fiber. Onions are usually offered as a topping.

SPINACH: This may be harder to find as a topping, but it is worth it. You will be adding antioxidants and iron to your meal.

Go order up your healthy pizza and enjoy!