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In a country where snacks come out of vending machines and dinners are frequently served through drive-through windows, nutritious choices can often be limited.
In a survey of 1,880 adults aged 24 and older conducted by Harris Interactive Inc., 90 percent of respondents indicated that they eat meals or snacks on the go and 60 percent do so on a daily basis. The survey took place between April 11 and April 13, 2005; its margin of error is plus or minus 3 percentage points.
The survey results also show that many people cite on-the-go activities - traveling, for instance - as reasons for falling off of the health-and-wellness wagon.
While a hectic schedule can hinder your efforts to eat well, small adjustments to your daily routine can greatly contribute to overall healthy living.
Carolyn O'Neil, a registered dietitian and co-author of "The Dish on Eating Healthy and Being Fabulous!," says that these small changes can lead to long-term success as they gradually become part of your everyday lifestyle. She offers the following tips on maintaining a healthy lifestyle in spite of a hectic schedule.
* Develop a plan for healthy eating on the go. Pack foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits and vegetables, cheese sticks, nuts and ZonePerfect Nutrition Bars. All of these can be stored in your briefcase, backpack or purse.
* A little exercise throughout the day goes a long way. Taking the stairs burns five times more calories than hopping on the elevator or escalator. Keep walking shoes in your car or at your office and fit in a lunchtime or midafternoon power walk. After work, continue physical activity by playing with the kids or taking the dog for a nightly stroll.
* Choose treats that are sweet - and nutritious. The survey also found that 96 percent of American adults crave snacks at some point during the day. Fresh-cut strawberries dipped in low-fat or nonfat yogurt, apple slices slathered with a tablespoon of peanut butter or, for chocolate lovers, Chocolate Caramel Cluster ZonePerfect Nutrition Bars are great-tasting, nutritious and protein-packed options that will satisfy your cravings. - NU
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