Smart Choices for Fueling Up Before a Day of Shopping














Get ready…get set…go! Before you head out shopping, take the time to fuel your body in healthy ways. Breakfast shouldn't be boring or tasteless, but it doesn't have to be a big production, either. Make delicious, smart food choices early in the day that will keep you energized and ready for a day of shopping.

Hydrate! Don't knock back a cup of coffee and call it done. To really get the most from your body, you need to drink lots of water. It keeps you from overheating, helps your body keep up the pace, and moves those nutrients around to where they need to be while you're hitting the sales. For a double-win, squeeze a slice of lemon into your water. The smell of citrus is thought to be especially energizing, and the added Vitamin C promotes immunity to any seasonal germs you may encounter throughout the day.

Avoid foods like breads, potatoes and sugary treats (like donuts and pastries), because while they contain carbs, they're the kind that will lead you to a sugar-low and a crash in energy later in the day.

Low-sugar, high-protein choices give you a boost when your energy starts to wane. Go for Greek yogurt with granola mixed in for a quick pick-me-up that lasts. Drizzle honey on top for sweetness and a kick of energy that's also good for you. For an extra treat, layer sliced fruits like peaches or strawberries in a pretty glass or bowl and call it a yogurt parfait.

Revisit oatmeal. This isn't your grandma's breakfast cereal, folks: Quaker Real Medleys gives your oatmeal a total makeover. I love the Cherry Pistachio Oatmeal+ in particular for the unexpected and very cool flavor combo. It's a healthy time saver that tastes anything but bland. Bonus: making it is as fast as heating up water. Total win.

Choose fiber. Here's a tongue-twister for you: Fuel yourself up with natural foods without flooding your system with fats and fillers. Fresh berries added to your breakfast give you a natural boost that's low in calories and high in fiber and Vitamin C. If you go with frozen berries, which are a fantastic option for enjoying out-of-season varieties, avoid those packed in sugary syrups.

It's super-important not to skip breakfast before you head out. You're probably less likely to make healthy, sensible meal choices when you're shopping if you're feeling tired and hungry with limited food options available.

Instead, give yourself a healthy start to your day and you'll have energy to spare!

Content by Kimberly Morgan .