How to Eat Healthy for Lazy People

With fast food and packaged meals all around us, it can be hard to eat healthy when you are busy with work and trying to have a life, as well. Fortunately, there are shortcuts that make eating right a little bit easier for those who don't have the time or inclination to cook healthful meals.

Instructions

1. Read the labels. Even similar products can have vastly varying nutritional information. For example, not all wheat bread is the same. Check the labels and buy products that are higher in fiber and lower in fat and calories. For example, buying a new brand of peanut butter might result in 2 fewer grams of fat and a lot less sugar. Wheat bread should have at least 4 grams of fiber per slice.

2. Buy pre-cut fruit and vegetables. Cutting and slicing up fruit and vegetables can be time-consuming and a hassle. The local supermarket and warehouse stores like Costco carry pre-cut fruits and veggies for easy snacking and cooking. Use pre-cut apples and pears to curb a sweet tooth or add some peanut butter for a high fiber, high protein snack. Use pre-cut vegetables in stir fries, salads, or just steam them for a side dish.

3. Take low-fat frozen meals to work. If you need something easy and quick at the office, buy one of the several brands of healthy frozen dinners such as Weight Watcher's Smart Ones or Healthy Choice. These can be a quick alternative to grabbing a burger at lunch.

4. Make smart choices at restaurants and drive-throughs. See the Resources below for nutritional information and Weight Watchers points for chain restaurants and fast food places. Select what you plan on purchasing before you get to the restaurant. If you are going out to eat and are unsure of the nutritional information, make smart choices like grilled fish and chicken and then have very small portions of less healthy items like bread, starches and dessert.

5. Throw out the junk food. If you don't have it in the house, you won't be tempted to eat it. Get rid of cookies, chips, crackers and soda at home. Stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, fruit and yogurt. If you love to snack in front of the TV, buy baked chips and pre-portion out one serving. This will help keep you from eating the whole bag.

Tips & Warnings

• Everyone slips from time to time; don't beat yourself up about it or use it as an excuse to keep eating junk.

• Not all light and reduced-fat products are healthful. Be sure to read the label to know what you are really buying.

Resources

• Dotti's Weight Loss Zone
• Restaurant Listings & Nutritional Info
• Tips for a Healthy Diet