Hectic lifestyles can make it a challenge to eat right, but a few well-chosen snacks can help Americans maintain their busy schedules without depriving their bodies of the nutrition they need.

Busy schedules can prompt many people to choose fast-food options that are usually high in calories, fat and sodium over balanced nutritional options or to skip meals altogether- but that's not necessary.

"Many people think that eating right takes too much time," said Tama Bloch, registered dietician. "In reality, today there are a variety of nutritious and delicious meal options and simple tips that can help even the most busy people eat right on the go."

Bloch suggests staving off 3 o'clock cravings without overindulging in nutrient-empty snacks by following these "Good for You On the Go-Go" healthy eating tips.

•Trail blaze a trail mix. Look for nutrient-rich foods that are easy to carry and pack, such as a small bag of dried fruits and nuts, which keep hunger at bay while providing a substantial amount of vitamins, minerals and fiber.

• Chop chop chop. Avoid eating empty-calorie snacks from the vending machine. Prepare and chop veggies into bitesize pieces at the beginning of the work week so that munching on the go is easy and doesn't cramp an overcrowded work schedule.

•Squirrel away for busy days. Maintain an office supply of nutritious grab 'n go foods such as bananas, whole wheat pretzels and low-fat cheese cubes, or stock up on nutrition shakes.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.