Can Hectic and Healthy Go Hand in Hand?

For people who are always on the run, it may be difficult to find a quick, healthy lunch or breakfast you can take on the go. It’s especially difficult when your job has plenty of fast food or takeout options nearby. The thing is, a lot of us who don’t make healthy decisions want to make them … we just don’t feel we have the time or energy. Many of us go to sleep thinking, “Tomorrow I’ll be healthy and pack a lunch,” and when morning time comes around, will-power goes out the window.

But here’s the truth of it all: Eating healthy doesn’t have to be inconvenient or a difficult task. A lot of it has to do with your mindset. If you typically eat unhealthy food, then it’s definitely going to seem like a hassle to make healthier choices. If you’re going to decide to be healthy, then you need to keep pushing through the cravings and setbacks. I’m sure you’ve heard it before: It’s a lifestyle change.

That being said, here are some quick and convenient meals and snacks that will boost your energy throughout the day:

Breakfast

Overnight Oats

1. See our previous Simply Well post for directions. Eat the oatmeal before you leave for work or school, or take it to go!
2. Tip: Buy frozen berries! They are cheaper and last much longer than fresh berries.

Boiled Eggs

1. Boil a dozen eggs and keep them in the fridge for the week.
2. In a container, add the eggs, veggies like grape tomatoes, green/red peppers, and cucumbers.
3. Add light mayo or olive oil, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Tip: If you don’t eat eggs, substitute with scrambled tofu!

Yogurt and Jam

1. In a container, add your choice of plain yogurt (there are plant-based yogurts too!), and add jam for a super, quick breakfast.
2. Tip: Pair with a banana and protein shake for extra nutrition!

Lunch

Salad

1. Choose your greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula).
2. Add protein (chicken, vegan chicken strips, tofu, etc.).
3. Throw on your favorite veggies (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers).
4. Tip: Try this healthy dressing (olive oil, lemon, dried mint, salt and pepper).

Rice ‘n Beans

1. If you don’t have time to cook rice, all you have to do is bring a microwavable bowl or dish with uncooked rice. Add water and microwave. Once the rice is almost cooked, add canned black or pinto beans, and microwave for a bit longer. Add seasoning of choice.
2. Tip: Add warm water to your rice before work or right when you arrive to make cooking time faster!

‘Fried’ Quinoa

1. Put uncooked quinoa and water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave until quinoa is cooked.
2. Crack one egg into another microwave-safe dish (a mug is ideal), and whisk the egg. Place in the microwave until cooked. Scramble the egg, and add it to the quinoa.
3. Tip: For extra nutrition, add frozen peas and carrots into the microwave with the quinoa.

Quick PB&J

1. This is perfect for days you are running late and can’t pack a lunch. You can keep these items at work: whole wheat bread, natural nut butter and organic jam. Put them together for a quick PB&J. Bring a banana and cut it on to your sandwich.

These quick and easy ideas are not only better for your body but are also money-saving. All these recipes can be revised for any kind of diet. With these quick options, there’s no need to struggle with being healthy with a hectic schedule!