In our fast-paced world, juggling work, family, and personal time can feel like a marathon. It’s no surprise that finding the time and energy for healthy eating, especially when you're out and about, can be a real challenge. That's why we decided to ask you, our members*, about your habits and hurdles when it comes to on-the-go nutrition.
An overwhelming 82% of you* told us you're interested in quick and healthy eating tips, so we're here to deliver! Let's break down the biggest challenges you face and share some of the brilliant, practical solutions our community is using to stay on track in 2025.
The Hurdles of a Hectic Lifestyle: What's Stopping Us?
We get it. When you're busy, convenience often wins. But what are the biggest roadblocks to maintaining a healthy diet on the move? Our study revealed a few key culprits.
The number one challenge, cited by 54% of our members, is the cost of healthy food. It’s a common perception that nutritious options come with a higher price tag, which can be a significant barrier. Following closely behind is the sheer convenience of fast food, which 42% find hard to resist. In a world with a drive-thru on every corner, the temptation is real.
Other major challenges include difficulty in planning meals ahead (39%), and a tie between a lack of time and a lack of healthy options (both at 34%). These hurdles paint a clear picture: people need solutions that are affordable, quick, and readily available.
The Secret Weapon: The Power of Planning
So, how do we combat these challenges? One of the most effective strategies is planning ahead. Our study shows that many of the respondents are already embracing this, with 45% "occasionally" meal prepping and a dedicated 39% doing it "weekly" or "multiple times per week."
Meal prepping can be a game-changer. By planning your meals, you can control ingredients, manage portions, and save both time and money during a busy week. It helps you avoid impulse buys and the last-minute stress of figuring out what to eat.
Here are some of the top tips our members swear by for maintaining a healthy diet on the go:
Stay Hydrated with Water: A massive 61% prioritize drinking water over sugary drinks. This simple swap is fantastic for your health and helps manage cravings.
Keep Fruits and Veggies on Hand: At 48%, having a steady intake of fruits and vegetables is a top strategy. They are nature's original grab-and-go snack!
Limit Processed Foods: 46% focus on limiting processed foods, which is a great way to cut down on hidden sugars, fats, and sodium.
Plan Your Groceries: A savvy 41% plan your weekly grocery shopping to avoid impulse buys, which is a brilliant move for both your health and your wallet.
Choose Healthier Restaurant Options: When eating out, 40% make a conscious effort to select healthier dishes.
Carry Healthy Snacks: Being prepared with your own snacks is a key tactic for 39% of our members.
Read Nutrition Labels: Another 39% make informed choices by reading nutritional labels.
Smart Snacking for Busy Days
When hunger strikes between meals, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. We asked you about your preferred healthy on-the-go snacks, and the results were delicious and diverse.
The top choice for 62% of our members is fruits and veggies, a classic for a reason! Coming in second are nuts and seeds (52%), which are packed with healthy fats and protein to keep you full. Tying for third place are protein bars and yogurt (both at 50%), offering a convenient and satisfying boost of energy.
Other popular choices include granola bars (46%), smoothies (41%), and trail mix (38%). It's clear that our members value snacks that are not only healthy but also easy to pack and eat anywhere.
Your Path to Healthy Eating Success
Eating healthy on the go doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By adopting a few key strategies, like planning your meals, making smart snack choices, and staying hydrated, you can fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive, no matter how busy your schedule gets.
We hope these insights from our community inspire you to find what works best for you. Happy, healthy eating!
*Source: Ipsos study conducted July 25 - 29, 2025, on 1,000 US Ipsos iSay members
