Ask Pam: Eating on the Go

Comment
Email Page
Print Page
Bookmark and Share
Wednesday, March 18, 2009 - 1 Comments
Each week, eDiets Director of Nutrition Pam Ofstein is answering readers' questions about diet and nutrition. Have a question about your diet? Want to know how to lose those last few pounds? Send an email to askpam@ediets.com and check back often to see if your question is picked.

What can I eat on the go?

Great question! Who has extra time on their hands? Whether you're running out the door in the morning, grabbing something quick at lunch or snacking during the day, eating on the go is a part of our daily routine -- but it can be challenging. Often, we associate eating on the go with fast food or unhealthy food selections. This isn’t always the case; it’s just as easy to keep moving and eat healthy!

Breakfast doesn’t have to be the traditional "eggs and toast" type of meal. You can grab easy items that are quick to make or eat: yogurt (drinkable ones work great) with some cereal or trail mix; a slice of turkey and cheese on toast/tortilla; an English muffin with peanut butter and a piece of fruit; or a hard-boiled egg, slice of cheese and an apple. Anything can work as long as you fuel up in the morning!

The most important thing to remember when eating on the run is to be sure your body has the energy it needs to keep up with you! If you plan on snacking, pick snacks that are low in calories but full of nutrition. Pick snacks that you can grab or throw in a bag as well as foods that are pre-packaged or that you can prep yourself.

Try some of these quick, easy and low-calorie foods on the go:
1. Piece of fruit (banana, apple, raisins)
2. Nutrition bar (100-150 calories; balanced carbs, fat and protein)
3. Low-fat yogurt drink (in the grocery store refrigeration section)
4. Low-fat string cheese
5. Carrots or cut up fresh veggies (pre-packaged ones or do it yourself)

When it comes to fast food and eating out, it all comes down to choices. The simpler the better. Opt for a burger or chicken sandwich grilled and keep the condiments light (stick to lettuce, tomato and ketchup or mustard). Switch out the fries for the fruit option or side salad. And forget the calorie-soda and substitute it for water or non-calorie drinks. These simple tricks can save you over 400 calories per meal!

Check out our Online Meeting "EATING ON-THE-GO" at 4 p.m. EST, March 24, 2009. Our Nutrition Support Team can help suggest snacks and meals to fit your busy lifestyle while eating healthy!

Have a diet question for Pam? Email askpam@ediets.com and check back to see if your question is picked! And if you missed a previous column, click here to see the archive.

Not sure what meal plan is right for you? Fill out our
FREE profile and let us help you eat right and support you along the way.

Pamela Ofstein, eDiets Director of Nutrition, is a registered and licensed dietitian responsible for the development, design and implementation of eDiets nutritional components, including product offerings, nutrition programs and media publicity. She received her B.S. in Food and Nutrition from Florida State University and M.S. in Dietetics and Nutrition from Florida International University. Leading a team of nutrition professionals, she continues to widen and enhance eDiets.com personalized services setting the standards to provide credible information to consumers.

Labels: ,

comment on article
email this article

Comment: Wednesday, April 08, 2009 2:12:00 PM - Anonymous Anonymous said...  

I very much want a lifestyle of healthy eating. The ideas given for healthy meals and snacks are so repetitious..I am not a cheese lover so it would not be a snack for me. I always have fruit but seek variety for protein sources as well as meal ideas that are not repetitious.


View more: Diet & Fitness
Diet & Fitness - Health eLiving powered by eDiets
Visit eDiets Store
Diet & Fitness
Mens Corner
Health News
Healthy Recipes
eDiets Videos

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for your knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. Please talk with your healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.