What “better for you” means on the go

(NC) Anyone setting a goal to eat better knows that it can be easier said than done. One major barrier many face is time. Often people are trying to fit healthy, satisfying food into an already-packed routine. Here are some ways you can fit choices that are better for you into a busy schedule: 

Make sure you’re focusing on the right things. It’s easy to fall into the trap of counting calories. Managing them is important, but fixating on a single number can result in losing sight of the bigger picture. Remember that everyone’s daily nutrition needs are different, so what works for someone else may not work for you. Better-for-you is less about cutting out food and more about focusing on the quality of the food you get. Making sure you’re getting a balance of nutrients, including protein, helps support your diet and health.

Make sure you enjoy your food. When eating better feels like a restriction or chore, or when we do it out of a feeling of obligation, it can make a routine much harder to stick to. Eating good food that you also enjoy lets you build positive momentum for your healthy habits. Finding better-for-you food that’s also convenient can be a challenge, but there are options, such as Subway Canada’s new Fresh Fit menu. It’s a group of sandwiches made on multigrain bread that have at least 21 grams of protein, as well as lots of different vegetables for a balanced on-the-go meal.

Make sure to get variety. Getting a wide range of food groups is also an important component of eating better. One simple way you can do this, even on a busy schedule, is to think in terms of rotations. Have a few different fruits you enjoy handy, as well as different nuts and yogurts, if you’re able. By grabbing a different combination on your way out the door each day, you’re helping your body get what it needs while keeping things fresh. The same goes for your other meals—by having a few different go-to options, you can keep up with your schedule and support your health without falling into a rut.

Eating better while you’re busy may seem like a challenge, but it’s actually an opportunity. It’s a way to equip your body to keep up with your routine while feeling good about yourself and what you eat. That’s the best of both worlds.