Whether you're a cyclist, runner, triathlete, skiier, Crossfitter or gym-goer, trying to balance work, family, a social life, while getting your excise in is hard work: You need energy and nutrition to keep you on-the-go, but taking the time to stop and prepare a perfect meal often gets thrown out the window. Don't find yourself skipping eating or lining up for fast-food, there are some great nutritional options that are totally portable and can keep you on track to get through your day. All you have to do is remember to slip them in your car, purse, desk drawer or gym bag. We have compiled the best of these portable on-the-go options in The Snack Box and Meals-To-Go Box. ENERGY BARS: Easy to eat and totally portable, energy bars are a go-to snack for people on-the-go. They're a great way to get "whole foods" when you're otherwise unable to. More on bars: Essentially there are two types of energy bars: high carb bars and low carb bars. Typically high carb bars, ones containing 40+ grams of carbohydrates are for working out. If you're looking for a bar that will keep you feeling full between meals, look for one with at least 6 grams of protein and about 15-20 grams of carbohydrates. Bars that are high in protein (30+ grams) might be a bit rough on your stomach. Rather, we recommend looking for a more equal ratio of carbs to protein. Recommended bars: Luna Bar, Breeze Bar, Cliff Z Bar, Rip Van Wafel, Thunderbird Energetic Bar [browse all bars] SHELF-STABLE MILK: First of all, if you have never experimented outside of the usual refrigerated milk, don't be scared. Shelf-stable milk is safe. It uses a super high temperature pasteurization process so it doesn't have to be in the fridge until it's opened. It doesn't have any added preservatives or chemicals. It's the same milk as the one you're used to, except you can carry it with you. More on milk: It's great for recovery, activating enzymes needed for muscle and nerve contractions. It is an excellent source of Vitamin A (bone development and night visions), Vitamin D (calcium absorption), a complete promein, contains 9 essential amino acids, and helps replenish electrolytes. Carry some milk with you and stir in your favorite recovery powder, and it becomes a delicious shake that's even more filling, and more beneficial. Recommended shake mixes: Fluid Recovery, Endurox R4 [see more shakes] WHOLE FOODS: Fresh vegetables and fruits are always easy on-the-go foods, however sometimes they're not readily available. Other great options are packets of honey, pouches of Nut Butters, rich chocolates and trail mixes. More on whole foods: With nut butters, trailmix and chocolate it's important to remember portion control. These foods are not only nutrient dense, but energy dense as well - this means they have a lot of calories. For this reason, carrying the single serving portions of honey and nut butters can be better than a bag of trail mix. Almonds, walnuts, soy nuts, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are rich in good fats, protein and fiber. Dried fruit or fruit leathers can give you that carb-energy boost. If you're more the chocolate lover, choose dark chocolate to get the added benefit of antioxidants. Recommended foods: Clif Z Fruit, Justin's Nut Butter, Kind Cluster, Epic Bar [discover more snacks]
