A new school year is upon us and that can mean hectic schedules and some eating on the run. Although healthy eating may seem like a chore, it doesn’t have to be. Here are some healthy eating tips and easy ways to save calories that are quick and easy:
 Don’t skip breakfast: A study published in the July issue of the American Journal of Epidemiology shows that people who skip breakfast are more likely to be overweight than those who don’t. Try eating half of a bagel with a tablespoon of peanut butter or a cup of fiber-rich cereal with ½ cup of skim milk. A glass of orange juice is a great way to add some Vitamin C to your meal. You can save calories by choosing a light orange juice (sweetened with sucralose), which has 60 fewer calories per eight ounces than its regular counterpart. If you prefer cranberry juice, the light version of cranberry juice saves 140 calories per 12 ounces!
Eat throughout the day: Eating “mini-meals” or snacks throughout the day will help your metabolism and keep you from overindulging later in the day. Snack on veggies with low fat dressing, fruit, baked potato chips or yogurt. If you choose the light yogurt over its regular counterpart, you’ll save 110 calories.
 Pack healthy lunches: It’s cheap and easy to pack your lunch. A sandwich on whole wheat bread with low-fat deli meat, reduced fat cheese and veggies will help give you energy throughout the day. If don’t like whole wheat bread, try wrapping your sandwich in a tortilla or a pita. To accompany your sandwich, include low fat tortilla chips and salsa, sliced veggies with dip or an apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter.
Stay hydrated: People often mistake hunger for thirst, grabbing a snack when what they really need is fluids. If you get bored with water, try the new flavored calorie-free waters sweetened with sucralose, or a diet soda. They taste great and offer refreshment without the guilt.
Keep dinner simple yet nutritious: Grilled chicken or fish is tasty, low in fat and easy to prepare. Pair with steamed veggies topped with low fat spray butter. Add some reduced-calorie applesauce (try a variety of unique flavors sweetened with sucralose) to get a serving of fruit without a lot of calories. For dessert, try the new sugar-free chocolates. Five pieces will surely satisfy your chocolate craving and contain 50 fewer calories than regular chocolates.
Eating healthy will help you look better and feel better. It will also give you energy when the days get long. Two thirds of the U.S. population is overweight and more than 30 percent are obese. You can make smarter choices when it comes to food. Just use these tips and you’ll be on your way to living a healthier lifestyle!
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