For too many of us, healthy eating is a lifestyle goal we just don’t have time for. Or at least this is the excuse we keep telling ourselves as we rush between meetings, deadlines and are blasting emails by the hour. Keeping your health on track may be easier than you think. Try these 8 smart healthy eating hacks for on-the-go professionals
1. Size matters
When you’re trying to eat healthy, portion size is everything. Make sure you’re not overeating by using smaller plates and bowls. You can also try pre-portioning your meals ahead of time so you’re not tempted to go back for seconds. Serve the same amount of food on a smaller plate – even though the quantities are the same, our eyes perceive the smaller plate to be far more full than the larger plate. Serve your vegetables on a large plate and anything unhealthy on a small plate at your next meal.
2. Don’t skip meals
Skipping meals might seem like a good way to save calories, but it can actually backfire. When you skip meals, your body goes into starvation mode and starts holding onto fat. So instead of skipping meals, try to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
3. Colour blocking
Another easy way to make sure you’re eating healthy is to fill your plate with a variety of colors. Fruits and vegetables come in all different colors, so aim to include as many different colors on your plate as possible. The more colorful your meal, the more likely it is to be packed with nutrients.
4. Unplug at the table
If you’re always eating on the go, one of the best things you can do is to unplug at the table. That means no more checking your email or scrolling through your Facebook feed while you eat. Instead, use that time to focus on your meal and really savor each bite. You’ll be surprised how much better you feel – both physically and mentally.
5. Cut out the caffeine
Caffeine is a great way to get a quick energy boost, but it can also wreak havoc on your sleep schedule. If you’re trying to eat healthy, cutting out the caffeine can be a big help. Instead of coffee or energy drinks, try drinking green tea or water with lemon. You’ll still get a bit of a boost, but you’ll be less likely to crash later on.
6. Snack attack
If you find yourself snacking more often than you’d like, try pre-portioning your snacks into single servings. That way, you won’t be tempted to mindlessly eat an entire bag of chips or box of cookies. Instead, you’ll have a healthy snack that’s just the right size.
7. The 15-minute rule
Wait at least 15 minutes after finishing your plate before deciding if you still want a second plate. This is the time it takes for your stomach to signal your brain that you’re full. Wait for your body to digest before continuing to eat the next time – you’ll realize how often we overestimate how much food we need to feel satisfied.
Eating healthy doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple tips, you can easily make healthier choices – even when you’re on the go. Give them a try and see how you feel!
Do you have any tips for eating healthy on the go? Share them in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other blog posts for more great health and wellness tips. Thanks for reading! until next time, stay healthy and happy.
