TIP 1: Keep it simple
One of the biggest misconceptions people make is waiting until they are ‘starving’ to eat something. That’s when things like fast food meals or vending machine snacks tend to look better than ever. By keeping yourself satisfied throughout the day, you’re less likely to make unhealthy choices when you’re out.
So, how do you get it done when you only have 10-15 minutes to spare? If you don’t have the time to prepare an entire meal before going out, just keep it simple. Pick up snacks that are portable and nutritious and take them with you. My four go-to snacks are fruit with a handful of almonds, non-dairy yogurt with coconut flakes, or a protein bar. These are all quick, simple, and tasty options are a great way to keep hunger at bay and keep you from making unhealthy choices.
P.S. – If you’re looking for recipe to get you started, check out my Mango Chia Vanilla Parfait recipe.
TIP 2: Prep or plan ahead
One of my biggest keys to staying on track is to try to always have a healthy option available no matter where you are. One option is to keep “snack packs” at my desk. That way when you’re on a call or have to run to a meeting, you can grab and keep moving. If it’s the weekend and you know you’ll be super busy, keep a few snacks [like a protein bar (one of my fav’s is Health Warrior) or granola] in your car or purse for easy access.
Also, customize “meal prepping” based on the amount of time you have. If you can only meal prep a few times a week, that’s seriously better than nothing. Pick a few days and meals (breakfast or lunch) when you have time to prep a meal the night before. Or if you have more time, pick one day a week to create a week’s worth of healthy meals that are portable and easy.
If you’re like me and don’t always have time to prep, make a list of items at nearby restaurants or healthy options that you can get if you have limited time. One of the best ways to stay properly nourished on the go is to be organized. When you feel prepared, you’re less likely to stress out and give in to the temptations.
P.S. – Here’s one of my few of my favorite quick and easy meals to prep overnight – Southwestern Avocado Quinoa Mason Jar Salad.
TIP 3: Choose quality “To-Go” containers
They say you eat with your eyes first. However, keeping ingredients fresh and safely stored is equally as important as making sure they look good. Let’s face it, pulling a smashed sandwich from a brown paper bag for lunch isn’t going to make you excited about eating healthy.
So, if you’re making the choice to plan ahead and prepare your own healthy to-go meals, invest in the right equipment. There are awesome options available now for food storage. There are containers that will keep fruits and vegetables crisp and crunchy, and other containers that can store things like yogurt and salad dressing without having to worry about leaks.
One of my new favorites are Stasher Bags– they’re like zip lock bags, but better for the environment. They are durable and you can pop them in the dishwasher for easy clean up. For bigger meals or days where you’re away from home, invest in a good set of leak-proof plastic containers. They will make lunch, dinner, or an afternoon snack a much more enjoyable experience.
TIP 4: Get creative with hydration
Our bodies are mostly made of water. So, we must consistently to replenish, refresh, and stay hydrated. It can be a struggle to chug water all day, so try getting creative with your hydration. Spice of your water by infusing it with tasty flavors. You can add a slices of fruit, like strawberries or lemon, or a few herbs, mint or basil leaves. It, also, helps to set a goal or get a fun travel water bottle to motivate yourself to drink more. You can add a few cups of tea to your day to add more flavor to your day.
One of my favorite on-the-go teas is Pique Tea. It’s all natural and easy to throw in your purse or keep at you desk. ways toTry having a cup of jasmine tea with a slice of lemon for soothing wake-up or a cup of green or matcha tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. Besides being comforting, drinking tea before or after a meal can help reduce bloating.
Eating On-the-Go Doesn’t Have to Be Unhealthy
These four tips just scratch the surface when it comes to how you can make better food choices on-the-go. With a little bit of creativity, organization, and motivation, it won’t feel impossible to eat healthy when you’re out of your house.