For many, it seems like our days get increasingly hectic and jam-packed. You might be facing new professional responsibilities and more family responsibilities, all while trying to squeeze in leisure activities to reduce your stress. Sometimes there isn’t a lot of time left to focus on personal health.
Check out these easy tips from Amanda Straley MS, RD, long term care dietitian at Hackensack Meridian Health Nursing & Rehab at Bayshore that will help you stay healthy while you’re on the go.
Pick a day to plan.
Figuring out your meal plans ahead of time can be a great timesaver. Choose one consistent day to sit down and plan out your meal schedule for the upcoming week. Use this time to check your refrigerator and pantry to make sure everything you’ll need is in stock. Also do some light food-prep, like chopping fruit or vegetables so cooking during the week won’t take as much time. Planning is essential when keeping up with a healthy diet.
Prep your own snacks.
In between meals, it’s easy to eat whatever is laying around if you’re busy or running late. You can prevent this by preparing your own snack options beforehand. Here are a few ideas for healthy on-the-go snacks that can hold you over until lunch or dinner:
- Low-fat cheese and crackers
- Low-fat Greek yogurt
- Nuts or seeds
- Cut fruit or vegetables
Check out the menus.
Not every meal you eat will be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. Dining out, whether for business or with friends and family, can lead to certain pitfalls when trying to eat healthy. Check the menu of whatever restaurant you’ll be eating at to scope out potential healthy options. Many restaurants post nutritional information online, so you can better plan. Also consider portion control, as some restaurants serve more food than you need for one meal. Think about dividing your plate into two servings, eating half now and saving the leftovers for another meal later in the week.
Find easy ways to stay active.
Balanced diets are one part of healthy living on the go; staying healthy through exercise is the other. Find ways to get some easy exercise throughout your day. If you have the opportunity, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Find a few brief windows during your day to go for a 10-minute walk. Anything that gets you on your feet and moving is a positive when trying to live a healthy lifestyle.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Amanda Straley MS, RD
- To make an appointment with a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
- Learn more about bariatric surgery at Hackensack Meridian Health.
- Attend a seminar to learn more about our weight loss surgery program.
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