by Ray Fauteux

Created on: August 22, 2007

Ensuring that you and your family eat well on run is really not that complicated.

Every kitchen table should have a bowl full of fresh fruit on it at all times. Apples, oranges, pears, and bananas are just some of the eat on the run fruits that are healthy and take no preparation at all, except for maybe a washing before they are put in the bowl. Other seasonal choices might be mandarin oranges, grapes, plums or peaches.

Carrot and cheddar cheese sticks can also be prepared in advance and wrapped in plastic and all ready to go if a snack on the run is necessary.

I even went so far as to keep a few dozen plastic spoons in the car glove compartment and would often grab a single serving yogurt from the fridge on the way out the door. As soon as I arrived at my destination, I would have a quick snack before leaving the car.

It's also a wise idea to keep some high quality energy bars in your purse or briefcase in the event you get tied up and are unable to stop to order a meal. Don't make the mistake of snacking on high sugar chocolate bars as the energy you gain is very short-lived and is often followed by a sugar crash that can lead to lethargy and sleepiness.

If you are one who tends to snack often, make sure they are healthy, nourishing snacks and not an endless supply of fast food treats high in fat and cholesterol.

Often what is available in the vending machine at work is not the healthiest choice.

Try experimenting with different foods and in time you will find healthy, "eat on the run" snacks that you really enjoy.

For instance, you can mix a variety of nuts(perhaps almonds, cashews, and walnuts)with raisins and shaved coconut to make a tasty, nutritious snack.

For something a bit more filling, I personally try and have a good supply of whole wheat bagels sitting on top of the fridge. I sometimes take a minute to add natural peanut butter and fresh honey or will even eat them plain. This is a far better plan then stopping on the way to your destination for a donut and a fancy coffee loaded with fat.

As well as healthy food, be sure to have a good supply of healthy drinks in your refrigerator.

Single servings of orange juice, apple juice, or high quality energy drinks are all good choices.

Don't forget about the kids. They require healthy food on the run as well. Some choices much better than cookies or sweets are small boxes of raisins, fruit, or cheese strings.

There are many other foods available for quick on the run snacks and often it's just a matter of being on the look-out when you make your way through the super-market.

Have the fun is trying to find new healthy snack ideas that fit your busy lifestyle.

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