One of the biggest challenges can be trying to still eat healthy when you are on the go! I know because as a trainer and nutritional expert, my days can be packed working with clients back to back and running around the city. If I do not have some healthy snack options available in my purse or gym bag, I know I most likely would make poor food choices.
The key is planning and packing healthy snacks ahead of time that are delicious and also very nutritious. I want to share 5 snacks (that I eat on a regular basis) in hopes to give you some easy ideas. They all can fit in your purse or bag too!
What A Celebrity Trainer Eats On The Go
Here are five good-for-you snacks that you can take anywhere on the go. They are also perfect choices to stay fueled and feel energetic which is a must for me and my clients.
Organic Fruit
I just love fruit as a healthy snack for when I am on the go. Fruit is something that holds up well anywhere I go and that just so happens to be packed with some serious vitamins and nutrients. My top choices would be an apple, orange, grapefruit, pear or banana mainly because of how easily I can bring them around (like in a gym bag). All berries are fine too if you can pack them easily. So basically any fruit that can hold up is ideal. Check what is in season too. Fruit is always a great choice and gives you a great dose of energy for the day.
Dried Fruit
I am a big fan of not just fruit but dried fruit as well. I also find when I am craving something really sweet that dried fruit does the job and keeps my cravings at bay. This is important so we do not reach for all the processed foods that are so easily available when a craving does strike. The portion you are looking for is 1/4 cup worth. Great examples are dried apricots, dried persimmons, dried cherries, dates, goji berries and a new favorite dried figs. I also love coconut flakes anytime of the day.
A Wholesome Snack Bar
This option is for when you are seriously on the go and need something very quick. Before you reach for just any bar though you must read the labels. This can be a tricky one. By now you are probably aware that not all protein and nut bars are created equal. In some cases, you are actually better off with a real candy bar, as there can be as much sugar and icky ingredients in an unhealthy protein bar. Make sure you can pronounce every ingredient (that is the test). For a wholesome bar that is made with real ingredients, I suggest KIND bars. If you notice any other bar with lots of artificial ingredients, fat and sugar….run! It’s not worth it.
Organic Nuts/Seeds and Nut Butters
Before you get too excited, please keep in mind that a serving of nuts is 1/4 cup at most, and aim for 1-2 Tbs for a nut butter. This is important so you don’t undo all your hard work. Fat is terrific and very important for your body but just keep your portions mindful and you will be good to go. Best choices are raw almonds, sunflower seeds, walnuts (packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fats), pistachios, pumpkin seeds, or Brazil nuts which are loaded with selenium and vitamin E.
Nut butters are also a favorite of mine for a way to control hunger when I can’t get to a meal. Almond, cashew and sunflower seed butter are my first choice. I like to slather a 2 tbs of a nut butter listed above over 2 celery sticks for the perfect snack on the fly. You can also look at nut butters in individual packets (2 tbs worth) sold at many stores.
Tip: Make your own trail mix by combining your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and spices like sea salt, cinnamon, nutmeg or ground ginger to change the flavor up a bit.
A favourite combo of mine is Brazilian nuts, goji berries and cacao nibs.
Organic Veggies With Hummus
This snack never gets old for me plus it is just so healthy. Fitting veggies in on the go can be a challenge as you know. This is one snack you will want to make the night before. Cut up your favorite veggies and put in a tupperware or ziploc bag. Sliced red bell peppers, cucumbers, zucchini, grape tomatoes and carrots are all perfect choices. You can then use store bought hummus (or homemade) and place (¼ cup worth) in a to go container. Now you are not only getting a great source of fiber in but a ton of nutrition.
I hope you find these healthy snack ideas helpful! They really work great for me and my clients. Enjoy.
