Jessica Crandall, Sodexo Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator & National Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Even though summer is winding down, your schedule probably isn’t. Between work, camp, play-dates and summer school, healthy, lifestyle routines can become lost in the shuffle. As our routines change, we can often lose sight of our established, healthy living routines.  So how do we ensure we pack healthy options regardless of our hectic schedules?

Breakfast: Don’t start the day without it!

Breakfast is by far the most important meal of the day.  Even if we are running late it is important to fuel our body before we begin our day.  Check out these quick fix ideas for breakfast on days when we need to eat and run.. 

•  Grab an apple, cheese slices and 2 oz. of nuts.  The cheese and nuts can be prepackaged the night before for a quicker exit in the morning.

•  Peanut butter waffles.  Face it the kids like those frozen waffles.  Start with a whole grain version of their favorite waffle, and rather than drenching it in syrup try adding 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter.  Need something sweet?  Add a few raisins.  This makes for a fast, healthy breakfast option; and one kids will enjoy.

•  Breakfast smoothie.  The extra time this one takes in preparation is offset by the fact you can drink it in the car.  A healthy fruit smoothie can be blended using Greek yogurt, milk and frozen fruit. 

•  Fresh fruit salad.  You can make this ahead of time by combining your favorite fruits and adding a few drops of lemon or lime juice.  You don’t want to forget the protein.  Pair this with a cheese stick or cup of cottage cheese and you are set!

Have any other fun, creative and healthy ideas for your busy schedules? I would love to hear them!

Jessica Crandall is a Sodexo Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator & National Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.