It’s official:  the holiday season is in full swing and that means go-go-go.  Kids’ plays, office parties, gatherings with friends and family, decorating, cooking, gift shopping…the list goes on and on!  With the shortened holiday season on the heels of a late Thanksgiving, it seems that every weekend comes and goes faster than the last, while the to-do list somehow gets longer.  Busy, hectic days often translate into eating on the go and it hasn’t always been easy to make healthy choices out and about.  We’ve got some good news, though.  There is a growing trend towards “improved fast food” which means you no longer have to eat your whole grains at home.  

Let’s start with the mall food court.  Three big players in malls across the country are Panda Express, Chipotle and Qdoba.  All three chains offer brown rice in their dishes, and Qdoba will wrap it all up in a whole wheat tortilla upon request!  If you’re looking for a sandwich or wrap, you’re more likely than ever before to see whole wheat options on deli menus, but if you don’t – just ask!  These items might be new, or not well advertised.  The more interest you show, the more likely you’ll see great grain choices on future menus!

Traveling for the holidays?  Airport food courts and restaurants are turning over a new leaf, too. Salad bars are gaining in popularity, and grains are often found in the mix.  Hold the stale slice of bread and scoop up a serving of whole grains alongside your greens.  In fact, whole grains like quinoa are a staple menu item in small salad bar chains like Chop’t and Sweetgreen – the latter also serves a bounty of local, organic greens and fresh produce.  If you’re in the Chicago area, quinoa is a main event on the menu at Protein Bar:  steaming hot in breakfast bowls, packed inside bar-ritos (with a whole wheat wrap!), or under a wide and delicious variety of toppings in their bowls and salads.       

While some of these chains are smaller or more localized, there are a few big guys making whole grains easy to find anywhere.  If it’s morning and you need something to power your day, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Panera, Au Bon Pain, Dunkin’ Donuts and many others serve hot oatmeal with optional fixings.  Many also offer egg sandwiches on whole grain breads and wraps.  When it comes to lunch or dinner, those same bread options can be found around delicious fillings, and next to hearty soups in many locations. 

When the day ends later than anticipated, or you’re capping it off with a relaxing dinner out with friends or family, we’ve got your back.  Our list of restaurants offering whole grains on their menu is available 24/7, so whenever the need arises you’re sure to find something that fits the bill.  

So remember, whether you’re running around for the holidays or any day, healthy eating is one thing you don’t have to scratch off your list!  (Danita)