Healthy eating on the go
[projekktor id=’17271′]
We all lead busy lives, and sometimes that takes a toll on our diet. That’s why some tips about eating healthy on the go will go a long way.
If you’re rushing the kids off to karate class after work, it’s easier to eat in the car instead of sitting down at the table. And if that’s what you’ve got to do, you want to make the healthiest choices you can.
We make some of our worst food choices when we’re on the go. But with a little preparation, that can change.
Registered dietitian, Shannon Crocker, recommends packing portions of nuts, veggies and fruit, especially if you’re staying over: “Say if you’re at a conference of something, at least you know that in your fridge in your room, you’ve got something that you can rely on.”
Crocker says: “If you have to stop at a restaurant on the go, it’s important to be assertive about add ons.”
A heavy handed serving of mayo or salad dressing can equal a couple hundred calories.
Crocker says: “You can always ask. take control of your meal. ask them to put a little bit less bacon, a little bit more kale.”
Checking nutritional information online or in store will give you a good idea of what you’re consuming. But be mindful — certain restaurants don’t include sauces in their calorie counts.
Crocker recommends options you can customize, like pitas. Piling on the fresh veggies will fill you up and add fibre to your meal.
And don’t overlook convenience stores for a bite on the go — as long as you’re choosing the right items.
Crocker says: “You really have to sleuth it out to see, do they have individual containers of yogurt in the fridge for example. Sometimes you can get individual packages of cheese. sometimes they do have a healthier grain bar.”
Wash down whatever you’re eating with water instead of sugary drinks. Keeping a bottle on hand will keep you hydrated without empty calories.
Portion control is also tough on the road. But if you look at the nutritional info, that should make the choice easier. A large sandwich or pita has about fifty per cent more calories than a regular size. And especially for a lunch portion, that’s all you need.
