Tips for the Holiday Season: Healthy Eating on the Go Part 2

Okay, so you’ve read the tips on healthy eating on the go. You know you should pack some jerky in your bag, along with your water bottle. You know to avoid Wetzel’s Pretzels and that gourmet cupcake stand. And yet, here you are: You forgot your snacks, you haven’t eaten in 7 hours, your stomach is growling, and you’re staring at the Burger King menu. You need a new set of tips; tips on what to eat when you can’t avoid the food court, food truck, food-some-other-establishment. Well don’t fret. I’m here to help.

Here are my top tips for eating healthy at the food court:

• Wherever you choose to eat, pick options that include lean proteins (chicken, fish) with healthy carbs (whole grains, brown rice) and healthy fats (nuts, olive oil).
• Remember to curb your cravings by trying a sample. ONE sample.
• Sharing is caring people. If you are shopping with someone, consider splitting a meal. Serving sizes are not considered in the food industry. You are generally given three times the appropriate serving size when eating out, so either split the meal with a friend, or ask for a to-go container, and save the rest for later.
• Save your calories for your food, not your beverages. Order a low-cal option to have with your meal. The best option is water (duh).
• Some meals options include:

o   Lightly seasoned stir-fry veggies with lean chicken, beef, or fish. NOT drenched with sauce and oils. Try with steamed brown rice.

o   Salad with grilled chicken. Pair with a side of non-creamy dressing, such as a vinaigrette. And go easy on the dressing, you want to be able to taste the actual vegetables!

o   Some places offer a soup and sandwich combo, in which you get half a sandwich and a cup of soup. Ask for whole-grain bread for the sandwich. When choosing soup, opt for a broth-based soup.

o    If you can’t avoid it and MUST have something like pizza, look for opportunities to be healthy. Order a thin crust pizza and load it with veggies.

It’s not always easy maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the go, especially during an already chaotic time like the holidays. However, with some simple tips, you can persevere! Save those calories for what really matters, like Aunt Jo’s brownies.

If you missed Part 1 of this post, check it out here!

What are you favorite,  healthy places to eat on the go?