Too Busy Holiday Shopping, Forgot To Pack Your Meal??

Here are 5 tips to help you stay on your diet through the duration of your busy shopping excursion.

1. Consuming a balanced meal requires more than just eating healthy foods, counting calories, and omitting unhealthy choices. Selecting foods that are high in protein, fiber, healthy fats and a balance of carbohydrates will help you feel satiated between meals. When planning a marathon-shopping day, make sure you eat before setting out for your journey. Pack a protein bar to avoid any possible chance of skipping a meal. Thus will only result in a drop in blood sugar and energy depletion.

2. Make wise decisions when selecting items from the menu. Keep your portions small. Bypass those hamburgers with two or three beef patties, which can pack close to 800 calories and 40 grams of fat. Why not enjoy a six-inch turkey sandwich on wheat bread from Subway instead, which only has 280 calories, 3.5 grams of fat, and 18 grams of protein. A six-inch roasted chicken breast containing only 320 calories, 5 grams of fat, and 23 grams of protein would be another health conscious decision. Go green and pack on the veggies but be weary of those fat filed condiments such as creamy sauces and mayonnaise.

3. Avoid those high calorie salads, such as those with deep fried shells or those topped with breaded chicken or other fried toppings. Keep it protein packed with a chicken burrito bowl from Chipotle. Add brown rice, Fajita Vegetables, Romaine Lettuce and Salsa, which will provide you with a healthy meal totaling 425 calories, 14,5 grams of fat, and 37 grams of protein.

4. Opt for grilled items. Fried and breaded foods such as crispy chicken sandwiches and breaded fish fillets are high in fat and calories. Select grilled or roasted lean meats-such as turkey or chicken breast. A grilled chicken sandwich from McDonalds contains only 350 calories, 9 grams of fat and 28 grams of protein.

5. Staying hydrated is imperative to sustaining energy levels and imperative to your overall health. However, avoid drinking your calories. A large soda can pack on up to 30 calories. Instead choose diet soda, unsweetened tea, zero calorie drinks or water.

For more information on nutrition, health and fitness, or if you’re frustrated with your current level of fitness and have been thinking about hiring a personal trainer, contact us.