We still have several weeks of summer ahead of us and those weeks usually include many activities. It can be easy to think, “We will just grab something while we are out.”
That thought may be necessary some of the time, but usually it is better nutritionally to pack our own food for our activities. Nutrition is the essential piece of our day that shouldn’t waiver.
So what are the biggest nutritional factors that we need to address?
1. Breakfast is fuel and boosts brain power. Research has shown that people who eat breakfast tend to do better in their activities all day long, have better ability to stay on task and have less incidence of obesity.
2. Fresh, natural foods build strong bodies and healthy brains. The more processing a food undergoes, the lower the nutritional content. Eating foods in the most natural form possible is the best way to consume the thousands of nutrients that are present in real food.
3. Quick or “fast food” doesn’t have to mean poor nutritional content. Pack breakfast, lunch or dinner. If we are pressed for time, packing nutritious foods is a better solution than driving through a fast food restaurant. Pack foods that can be eaten quickly. Quick and nutritious foods include: fruit, natural yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, natural granola-type bars, cereal, sandwiches, trail mix, juice, milk, healthy smoothies, pretzels, and cut up veggies. A little time preparing these foods will mean a huge nutritional benefit.
Laying a good nutritional foundation ensures that we are properly fueled for whatever activity lies ahead of us. So pack a good nutritional punch each day!
