Fast food gets a bad reputation. It’s usually associated with images of popular chain restaurants, greasy paper bags and high calorie counts that lead to weight gain and a myriad of other health issues.
But what if it doesn’t have to be?
Fast Food Alternatives to Help You Stay On-track
We all have busy schedules that keep us on-the-go. In those moments, it can be hard to prioritize nutrition over other responsibilities — such as work, school, picking the kids up, grocery shopping and running those less-than-exciting miscellaneous errands.
You might be sacrificing your time, but you don’t have to sacrifice healthy food. Rather than hitting up the nearest drive-thru restaurant for a quick bite, why not enjoy fast food in a couple of other healthy ways?
- Frozen Foods – Most grocery stores offer plenty of healthy, frozen meals that can be ready in the same amount of time it takes you to get to the drive-thru. Look for options that are rich with lean meats, whole grains and plenty of vegetables.
- Pre-packed Foods – If you know you’re going to be on-the-go, why not prepare ahead of time for your snacks and meals? Keep an insulated lunch box full of healthy, protein-packed foods that will keep you full until you’re back at home.
- Freezer-stored Foods – Have you ever cooked a large meal such as chili, soups or other hearty dishes? Instead of letting your leftovers sit in the refrigerator, try freezing enough to be used for dinner during one of your family’s busy nights.
- Quick Minute Meals – These are foods you can whip up in a flash, no matter your schedule. Here are a few examples: Super salads, veggie soup, hearty cereals, omelets, whole grain quesadillas with low-fat cheese and vegetables, avocado toast – you name it!
Just because your schedule is unpredictable doesn’t mean your menu has to be. There are plenty of ways to stay on-track with food, evening when you’re running low on time. All it takes is a little creativity and some planning, which you can hopefully squeeze-in on the weekends.
Want More Tips for Eating Healthy On-the-Go?
CLICK HERE to read more about choosing the right convenience foods.
