High cholesterol is a growing problem in today’s society, with busy lifestyles and fast food being more prevalent than ever before. It’s easy to fall into the trap of eating unhealthy food choices, especially when you’re on the go.
However, making small changes to your diet can make a big difference to your cholesterol levels. Here are some tips for eating on the go:.
1. Choose the Right Fast Food Options
There are plenty of fast food options available that are high in fat and cholesterol, but there are also healthier choices that you can make.
Look for grilled chicken sandwiches instead of fried, salads with grilled chicken or fish, and soups or chili that are low in fat. Avoid burgers, hot dogs, and fried foods, as these are often high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
2. Snack Smart
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to reach for a candy bar or bag of chips. However, these types of snacks are usually high in calories, fat, and sugar. Instead, opt for healthier snack alternatives such as fruits, nuts, and seeds.
These snacks are low in calories, and they help to keep you feeling fuller for longer periods of time.
3. Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to ensure that you’re eating healthy when you’re on the go is to plan ahead. Pack healthy snacks such as fruits, nuts, and seeds, and bring them with you wherever you go.
You can also pack a healthy lunch, such as a salad or sandwich, and bring it with you to work or school.
4. Choose Whole Grains
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to grab a bagel or pastry for breakfast. However, these types of foods are usually high in fat and calories. Instead, opt for whole-grain cereal or oatmeal.
Whole-grain foods are loaded with fiber and other nutrients that help to lower cholesterol levels.
5. Watch Your Portion Sizes
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to overeat. However, overeating can lead to weight gain and higher cholesterol levels. Always watch your portion sizes, and make sure that you’re eating the right amounts of food.
Choose smaller portions if you’re eating out, and try to eat slowly to give your body time to register when you’re full.
6. Avoid Trans Fats
Trans fats are a type of fat that are often found in processed foods, fast foods, and baked goods. They are one of the worst types of fat for your health, as they raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Always read the labels on your food, and avoid any products that contain trans fats.
7. Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help to lower cholesterol levels. When you’re on the go, try to incorporate as many fruits and vegetables into your diet as possible.
Bring along a bag of baby carrots or a container of grapes to snack on throughout the day.
8. Choose Lean Protein
When you’re on the go, it’s easy to choose high-fat proteins such as bacon or sausage. However, these types of meats are loaded with saturated fat, which raises cholesterol levels.
Instead, choose lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, fish, or tofu. These proteins are low in fat and are packed with nutrients that help to lower cholesterol levels.
9. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water is important for many reasons when you’re trying to lower your cholesterol. Water helps to flush out excess cholesterol from your body, and it also helps to keep you feeling full.
When you’re on the go, always make sure that you have a bottle of water with you, and drink it throughout the day.
10. Get Creative With Your Food Choices
Being on the go doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice healthy eating habits. Get creative with your food choices by finding alternative options for your favorite meals.
For example, if you’re craving a burger, try making a veggie burger instead. If you’re in the mood for pasta, try using zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta.
Conclusion
Eating on the go can be challenging when you’re trying to maintain healthy eating habits. However, by making small changes to your diet, you can significantly lower your cholesterol levels.
Remember to choose healthy fast food options, snack smart, plan ahead, watch your portion sizes, avoid trans fats, load up on fruits and vegetables, choose lean protein, drink plenty of water, and get creative with your food choices. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a healthier lifestyle.