Modular Meals

It's not usually difficult for me to convince clients of the importance of eating healthfully. Most people already realize, or are easily convinced that quality fuel runs the machine better than garbage. Three very real obstacles in terms of actual practice, though, are:

1. Knowing what makes up quality fuel

2. Willingness to stop eating garbage instead of quality fuel

3. Manageable ways to get quality fuel

The first item is covered in detail in this posting: http://45yearold6pack.blogspot.com/2008/03/keep-this-blog-alive.html

The second is simply a matter of conviction, priority and seriousness. Read more about this topic here: http://45yearold6pack.blogspot.com/2008/07/truth.html

Finally, most of my clients have, like I do, a very tightly packed and somewhat chaotic schedule. That's where modular meals can be a real lifesaver. What I mean by modular meals is three components (a protein source, a whole grain source, and fruit or veggies) that can be grouped in a number of ways to make a meal on the run (or at the computer, at the kids games, even between or during meetings). Here are some of my favorites:

A hard boiled egg + two whites, Triscuit crackers and an orange

A grilled chicken breast with a pocket salad (cherry tomatoes, snap peas and baby carrots) and Soy Crisps http://www.genisoy.com/products/snacks/soy-crisps/

Smoothie http://45yearold6pack.blogspot.com/2008/01/flat-belly-recipe-blackberry-mango.html and whole wheat honey pretzels (Trader Joe's)

A protein bar and a V8

A grilled buffalo burger (also TJ's), half a whole wheat bagel and celery sticks w/peanut butter

Roasted edamame (soy beans) with Quaker oat squares and an apple

(if you're at home) Pita chips dipped in cottage cheese with broccoli dipped in hummus

Beef Jerky, sourdough pretzels and a banana

Any of these combos are easy to grab and go and eat while doing other things. Another bonus is that you can have one at a time, if that's easier, and stretch your meal out over an hour or more (even better for keeping your blood sugar stable and burning more calories.)

Try some of these and let me know what you think!