Eating on the Go!

Eating On The Go!

“We live in a fast-paced world... where it seems impossible to pack anything more physically or mentally in and yet we manage.... a world where we are inundated with responsibilities.  As this world has evolved, so have we, but arguably in the wrong direction. We have compromised on eating well, often preferring fast food than a wholesome meal.  We load up on more calories and fat than any generation in human history yet exert less energy than our ancestors who laboured.”                     Dr Raj Jutley, Cardiac Surgeon

So while you’re chasing around everywhere – never eating sitting down, let alone at a dinner table here’s some top tips you’d  be well-advised to follow.

Chew slooowwwly!

Many people eat as if they’re in a race to get the food in their stomach as fast as they can! They shovel the food into their mouth, chew for a few seconds and then swallow. What they’re not realising is that the process of chewing is actually a vitally important first stage in digestion - due to the effects of an enzyme in our saliva. Slow down and chew for longer and you should see an improvement in your digestion.

Don’t eat on autopilot

Commonly, when we eat at our desks, we’re not focusing on our food, but on our work instead. This habit can lead to poor portion control, weight gain and digestive problems.  Take time to think about what you’re eating.

Stay hydrated

Your brain is at least 80% water so keep it hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Offices with commercial air handling systems can be quite dry so make sure you’ve got a plentiful supply of water. that junk food doesn’t give you the prolonged energy flow you need to get through a busy day. After an initial energy rush, sugary food often leads to a drop in blood sugar levels causing the jitters, sugar cravings, a lack of concentration and lethargy.

Feeling hungry?  Are you sure?  It’s often thirst...reach for the water first!

Beware of caffeine overload

Caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, energy drinks and some soft drinks are relatively harmless in small quantities. However, too many can cause dehydration and caffeine overload, leading to sleepless nights and underperformance the next day.  Swap the caffeine for herbal teas or hot water and lemon.

Avoid the energy rollercoaster

“After losing weight energy has to be the thing that I talk about more than anything with my clients.  Firstly they want more energy and then they want to be able balance it’s levels  throughout the day.

Your body is always trying to maintain homeostasis (internal equilibrium), and is only happy with a small variation in blood sugar.  Sugary snacks, no protein or fat, send the blood-sugar level above your body's comfort zone.   Your body responds by secreting insulin and the energy   rollercoaster is off and running.  Hold on tight!”  Barbara Cox, Nutrichef

Eat at regular intervals

Skipping meals can cause drops in your blood sugar levels that lead to dizzy spells and lack of concentration. Make sure you go to work after having a good breakfast – cereals with dairy-free milk are best. Don’t skip lunch and don’t eat dinner too late or you won’t enjoy a good night’s rest!

Healthy snacks

If you feel the need to snack between meals, first have a glass of water - people often mistake thirst for hunger! If you do need a bite to eat, go for something like fruit or a cereal bar that’s free from additives.

Nutrichef Flapjacks are the perfect healthy snack or meal replacement:  NO artificial colours or flavours, NO trans fats, NO dairy, NO wheat, NO salt.  They are vegetarian friendly and deliver a slow release of energy ideal if you’re out and about, on the go.

Beware that junk food doesn’t give you the prolonged energy flow you need to get through a busy day. After an initial energy rush, sugary food often leads to a drop in blood sugar levels causing the jitters, sugar cravings, a lack of concentration and lethargy.

• Mango  is the “King of Fruits” and comes in over 1000 varieties. The phenolic compound found in mangoes has been found to have powerful antioxidant and anticancer properties.
• Watercress Packed with folate, iron and beta-carotene, and good for cardiovascular and     thyroid function, too.
• Avocado provides 20 essential nutrients including fibre, B and E vitamins
• Cabbage Rich in fibre, vitamin C, beta-carotene and disease-fighting sulphorate
• Water & lemon or herbal tea alkalising, hydrating and cleansing

Energy Zappers

The enemies of energy!  These foods give you a boost like a firework, all over in a flash, with no           lasting effect.  And we know all about them, so moderate or eradicate!

• Alcohol
• Burgers & other fast food
• Caffeine
• Carbonated drinks
• Cakes, cookies & sweets

www.thenutrichef.co.uk