Tips for eating smartly while "on the go".

These days it can be pretty hard not to eat while you’re "on the go." The trick is eating as healthfully as possible so your body and mind have the right fuel to get you through the day. 

Here are a few helpful hints to eating well, wherever you may be.

1) Portability done right. A notable trend in recent years is the widespread availability of ready-to-eat food, particularly snacks. While it’s easy and enticing to grab a calorie-laden, high-sugar treat, it doesn’t do your body any good. Consider healthier snacks like fresh fruits and veggies that you can cut up and take with you in plastic zip bags or small containers. Pair them with cheese, nuts and/or seeds, and you’ve got a convenient, healthy snack that’s a breeze to put together. Granola, protein or energy bars can be viable alternatives, but don’t go overboard since they can have added sugar or sodium. Plan ahead a bit and you’ll have no problem packing healthy snack choices to satisfy your hunger.

2) Smart restaurant selections. Eating out can benefit you from a social or business perspective (plus it’s nice to have a night off from cooking). Healthy choices come down to frequency and restaurant selection. Don’t deny yourself a burger, fries (or whatever your weakness may be) just don’t make it a habit! The prepared-food industry knows people are eating outside of the home more often and there is fierce competition for your “indulgence dollars”. That means it shouldn’t be too hard to find a delicious, nutritious and fun restaurant. Also try to control your consumption of alcohol, sugary drinks and over-the-top desserts. 

3) Eating well while you travel. Many people lose their dietary discipline when they travel, especially on vacation. It’s certainly okay to relax your regimen when you’re lounging at a nice resort or visiting an exciting new locale. You work hard all year and you should enjoy your time away from home. At all-inclusive cruises or resorts, you’ll be surrounded by decadent food and beverages, 24/7. Be smart with your choices and how much you eat and drink. Treats and other rich foods are fine in moderation, but be sure to “offset” them with more wholesome selections. 

Taking care of yourself is important and at the end of the day, it’s all about finding a balance and being mindful.