Often our busy lives don't leave us time to sit down and enjoy a meal, so eating on the run is our only option. The choices available from the local café, corner store or gas station are generally pretty poor so what’s the alternative? Actually there are plenty. The key is being prepared- so plan ahead to save time and money in the healthiest possible way.  
 
Balance blood sugar

When we're constantly on the go and don't have time to stop and eat, we reach the point where we crash and so we grab something quick. Often that means a pick-me-up like cakes, chocolate or coffee. While these provide a welcome energy hit, they upset our blood sugar balance, which causes another crash about an hour later.  What we need are easy, sustainable snacks to balance sugar levels and keep us going.
 
Curb cravings

As our blood sugar levels destabilize, cravings set in. The cravings often alternate between sweet and salty. Cravings are a sign our body is not getting the nourishment it needs. Sweet or coffee cravings often indicate a low blood sugar level, while salty cravings indicate our body does not have the minerals required to process its previous sugary hit. Neither provide the balance our body requires and this exacerbates the problem. We need healthy proteins, essential fats, complex carbs, vitamins and minerals for stability and nourishment. 
 
On the hips

Sugary and salty snacks are generally energy dense, yet nutrient poor.  This means the calories they contain are not used efficiently by our body and often end up on our hips rather than providing the lift we really need. 
 
The healthy alternative

Healthier snacks are often lighter in calories, and their rich nutrient profiles help our body get the most from them, curb cravings and boost energy while shedding pounds.
 
Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds make delicious and filling snacks. Rich in protein and healthy fats they boost energy and balance blood sugar. If you're trying to lose weight make sure to just have a few nuts to get the boost you need.  Soak them the night before to activate their enzymes and get even more out of them.
 
Fruit

Fruits are a great light snack if you need a quick lift.  Their fiber and vitamin content balances the sugar and a low calorie count makes them a better choice if you’re trying to lose weight.
 
Crudités and dips

Chop up some veggies the night before or over breakfast to make fabulous crudités. Home-made dips such as guacamole or hummus are also easy to prepare and last awhile in the fridge.

• An avocado mashed with lemon juice and a dash of chili is the foundation for guacamole.  You can add green onion, chives or diced tomato to taste.
• Boil a couple of cups of chick peas or soak some cashews overnight, and stir in a few spoonfuls of tahini for delicious hummus.  Fresh garlic, lemon juice and some roasted vegetables can spice it up for an irresistible treat.  

Take these to work to keep you going.  Rich in vitamins and minerals, they will keep your cravings at bay throughout your day.
 
Juices and smoothies

If you’re thirsty for a sweet drink or cup of coffee try a juice or smoothie instead.  Say no to sodas and caffeine with these vitamin-rich alternatives.
 
Cheap and quick

It’s just a matter of being prepared.  Taking your own food is always cheaper than buying from the local café and with a little thought can also be quicker. It doesn’t take more than a couple of minutes to soak some nuts, while mashing up a bowl of guacamole is a 5-minute job. A big batch of hummus doesn't take long to make and will last in the fridge all week. 
 
Just say no to unhealthy snacks!  By following these tips, you will balance energy, lose weight and curb cravings with easy, cheap and delicious alternatives for those bags of chips, chocolate and sodas. Get yourself organized and into these healthy options for a lighter and more energized new week.

Related articles: You Are What You Eat, Weight Loss E-learning