Nutrition Experts
Question:
What are some tips for eating healthy when I'm holiday shopping at the mall?
Answer:
Healthy food options at the mall might seem as likely as scoring the last sweater in your size at the half-off sale. But there are some healthy options amidst the burgers, fries, cinnamon buns and ice cream.
Use shrewd shopping strategies to unearth the best calorie bargains. Hunt for items like salads with lots of veggies, grilled chicken and low-calorie dressing, whole-grain wrap sandwiches stuffed with veggies and lean meat (hold the mayo), small burgers or grilled chicken sandwiches, or plain chicken and vegetable stir-fries. If you stop at a coffee shop, order a fat-free latte or hot chocolate made with fat-free milk.
Better yet, pack a few munchies in your bag to power through your shopping expedition. You'll be less likely to indulge in a calorie-laden meal or snack—and save money, too!
Some ideas:
Sturdy fresh fruit such as apples, oranges or bananas
Dried fruit
100-calorie packs of trail mix, rice cakes or nuts
Peanut butter sandwich on whole-grain bread
Popcorn, seasoned with herbs or spices instead of butter
Whole-grain crackers and low-fat cheese slices
Cereal or granola bars
Fat-free yogurt or yogurt smoothie
Bottle of water
You can even burn off some calories during your shopping trip.
Park your car far out in the lot, not near the door.
Take a few extra laps around the mall.
Walk as briskly as you can between stores (make sure to dodge other shoppers!).
Use the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator.
Make repeat trips to your car to unload purchases.
Nutritionist Experts
Our Nutrition Experts are registered dietitians who hold master’s degrees and are members of the American Dietetic Association and several specialty nutrition groups. They combine over 40 years experience in food and nutrition science, communications and counseling, the culinary arts and the development of nutrition education materials. They are quoted frequently in the national media and have written about nutrition for many major magazines, newspapers, and newsletters.
