Nurses are notorious for eating on the go, grabbing something quick, easy and often times not the healthiest. As a care giver, you also need to care for yourself and your day-to-day food and physical activity choices affect your health — how you feel today, tomorrow, and in the future. These tips and ideas are a starting point. Choose a change that you can make today, and move toward a healthier you.
- As a beverage choice, ask for water or order fat-free or low-fat milk, unsweetened tea, or other drinks without added sugars.
- Ask for whole-wheat bread for sandwiches.
- In a restaurant, start your meal with a salad packed with veggies, to help control hunger and feel satisfied sooner.
- Ask for salad dressing to be served on the side. Then use only as much as you want.
- Choose main dishes that include vegetables, such as stir fries, kebobs, or pasta with a tomato sauce.
- Order steamed, grilled, or broiled dishes instead of those that are fried or sautéed.
- Choose a small" or "medium" portion. This includes main dishes, side dishes, and beverages.
- Order an item from the menu instead heading for the "all-you-can-eat" buffet.
- If main portions at a restaurant are larger than you want, try one of these strategies to keep from overeating:
- Order an appetizer-sized portion or a side dish instead of an entrée.
- Share a main dish with a friend.
- If you can chill the extra food right away, take leftovers home in a "doggy bag."
- When your food is delivered, set aside or pack half of it to go immediately.
- Resign from the "clean your plate club" - when you've eaten enough, leave the rest.
- To keep your meal moderate in calories, fat, and sugars:
- Ask for salad dressing to be served "on the side" so you can add only as much as you want.
- Order foods that do not have creamy sauces or gravies
- Add little or no butter to your food.
- Choose fruits for dessert most often.
- On long commutes or shopping trips, pack some fresh fruit, cut-up vegetables, low-fat string cheese sticks, or a handful of unsalted nuts to help you avoid stopping for sweet or fatty snacks.
What are your tips for eating healthy on the go? Share your suggestions in the comments section below.