December 8, 2016
We live in a society that is always on the go. We’re rushing to work, meetings, school, picking up the kids at daycare and even rushing home. There are days where we can barely find the time to eat although we cannot ignore this natural urge. We need food to fuel our bodies to keep going. And on those busy days, we sometimes choose the fast option.
This may be a familiar scenario to you….You’re rushing to a meeting and your stomach starts to growl. At that moment you’re passing by a fast food chain where you know you can get a cheeseburger under a minute and eat it on your way to the meeting. It eases your hunger in the moment but soon you become sluggish and you can’t concentrate in your meeting. You experienced the infamous ‘crash’. In the scenario, some may choose a chocolate or granola bar, a muffin or a bagel but they all contribute to a crash.
Most of the ‘quick fixes’ are filled with sugars and/or carbohydrates that convert quickly into sugar and give us that ‘sugar rush’ but with no nutritional value. The ‘quick fixes’ are just that, they make you feel satisfied quickly but it does not last. If anything, they have an adverse effect. After the initial sugar spike, your blood sugar drops. Your mood will change due to the low blood sugar and will then crave more sugar wanting another ‘quick-fix’ and there starts the vicious cycle.
A ‘quick-fix’ does not need to have a negative connotation.
Healthy options for a ‘quick-fix’ to satisfy your hunger:
Healthy sandwiches Pre-made ‘to go’ gourmet sandwiches and wraps are a big new fad in many cities and towns. Or you can find a healthy sandwich bar in your area. It takes just as much time to make a healthy sandwich as it does waiting for your burger and fries at the fast food joint. My favourite gourmet sandwich is fresh turkey slices with pear and brie cheese on toasted whole wheat bread.
Nuts or all natural granola bars Nuts are a great source of energy. Of course go for the unsalted natural nuts. Natural granola bars are also easy to consume on the go. Be sure to read the labels and look out for ‘NON GMO’ stamp and check for natural ingredients. Stay away from the sugary/ candy bar types of bars. They will certainly contribute to that sugar crash.
Veggie sticks with cheese Most grocery stores have pre-cut veggies and cheese boxes that you can grab on the go.
Fruit Simple and easy! Grab an apple or a banana. Great for a quick energy boost with no sugar spike.
Protein shake/smoothies You can get many of your essential nutrients all in one yummy fruit or veggie smoothie/shake of your choice. Add a protein shot for extra energy. There are many smoothie and juice bars that are popping up all over and easy to find when you’re out and about.
Salads You can pick up a pre-made salad at most grocery stores or side markets. Many fast food places are also offering salads as healthy alternatives. However, be careful what you use for dressing. Do not use ranch or creamy packaged dressings as they are filled with bad fats, sugars, carbs, sodium, chemicals and preservatives. Instead use extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. My favourite salad is mixed greens, goat’s cheese, roasted nuts, cherry tomatoes, and onions.
These yummy options for a ‘quick-fix’ will keep your tummy happy, energy levels up and calorie intake down!
