Food: To Go, Or Not To Go...

Is it just me, or are you always hungry?! It could be the sudden increase in workouts, or maybe it's the endless appointments now inundating my schedule. Or maybe daydreaming about Monique Lhuillier trunk shows induces hunger. Either way, this bride is hungry! And sorry In N' Out, but even your secret low carb menu doesn't cut it on the BridieDiet. With all the running around we'll be doing after an already busy work day in the coming months, it's a good idea to start stockpiling on some to-go foods that can withstand the heat of your car, and keep you going between the 5 o'clock whistle and your (low carb we'll presume) dinner at 8.

Jamba Juice and Pinkberry may seem like logical quick fixes when you're an on-the-go bride-to-be, but before you go deciding between Green Tea and Pomegranate, you should know that'll run ya a few hundred calories. Sorry to be the bubble burster, but an average Jamba will run you 440 calories, and Pinkberry, though not as deadly, still steals at least 250 from you. And I guarantee you'll be hungry soon after.

The key is to search for those delish snacks that won't rob you the pleasure of having a glass of wine with dinner later on. They're out there, but you have to be wary of the labels! Just because it's a nut, doesn't mean it's healthy. Sorry wasabi peas from Trader Joes: We love you, but we'll see you after the honeymoon. Here's a quick list to get to started on BridieDiet approved on-the-go snacks to get you through those in-between times, whether it be work-to-gym, trainer-to-florist, or class-to-caterer.

Remember, these little in-between healthy snacks will do wonders, not only on your mood, but your growling stomach as well.

1. Almonds: The Food and Drug Administration approved a qualified health claim for nuts in 2003 which states, "Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove, that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease." As if you need more motivation, they're easy to store, and a little handful will keep your hunger at bay for at least an hour. Don't be afraid of the fat content...it's what nutrionists call "good fat," and the 46% fiber-per-cup thing says it all.

2. Larabars: I'm super picky about bars, so when I came across these and saw that their deliciousness matched their nutrition, I was stoked! They're gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, soy bars that include blends of fruits, nuts, and spices. They come in great flavors like Ginger Snap, Peanut Butter Cookie, and Key Lime Pie, and will only run you 200 calories.

3. Turkey Jerky: I'm surprised at how many women aren't into jerky! Ok, I'll admit, my fiance turned me on to it. But this stuff can really withstand any temperature. And they come in every flavor imaginable, from jalepeno to teriyaki. Jerky will run you about 200 calories per serving, and can be a tad high in the sodium department. So don't overdo it, and make sure you're gonna get a good sweat going after gnawing on these bad boys!

4. String Cheese: This has to be my absolute childhood favorite, and thankfully companies like Healthy Choice and South Beach Diet have jumped on board to create low-fat versions. I'll admit, they don't allow you to get that satisfaction of pulling apart the cheese one string at a time, but they're a lot healthier. And a great source of protein and calcium! But this one needs to be refridgerated, so keep that in mind!

5. Baby Carrots: This little nuggets will satisfy your need for a crunch, and can last for hours, even if you forget them in the car! But here's the key: put them in an airtight container with some cold water and a couple ice cubes. That'll keep them fresh and crunchy and not all dried out.

Kisses! Bridie