Eating on the Go

by Emilie Hunt and Angie Eshleman, RD, LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Sinai Hospital

It’s no secret that the business of life can get in the way of our healthy eating habits. This may especially hold true if our schedule is pulled in many different directions on a regular basis. Don’t let the stress of eating healthy while on the run leave you discouraged. Believe it or not, it can be easy to find healthier options while you are running errands and finishing last minute tasks.

Consider these tips when dining out:

• Pay attention to portion size. Many of the meals offered can be super-sized or mega-sized. Choose the child’s size portion or substitute an appetizer portion for your normal sized entrée. It may even help to share half of your meal with a friend or take half home!
• Look for a heart symbol next to the choices. Many restaurants provide “Heart Healthy” options which tend to be lower in sodium and fat.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for your meal prepared a certain way. Ask the waiter to hold the rich sauce, or substitute a steamed veggie for French fries.
• Shopping at the mall? Fight the urge to eat high calorie entrees such as Chinese food or a cheeseburger and fries. Grab a flavor packed fresh fruit smoothie instead. Load it up with a variety of fruits and low fat yogurt for maximum flavor.
• Keep healthy, easy to grab snacks in the car or in your purse. Try fruit and nut granola bars, trail mix or a piece of fresh fruit. All are loaded with fiber and will help keep you tied over until you finish your errands.

For more tips about Eating on the Go, click here.