Moms are constantly on the go, and that often means meals are grabbed through drive-thrus or simply not eaten at all. Energy comes from caffeine and sugar, and the crash that inevitably follows is handled with another round of the same treatment. What every mom needs to remember is that nutrition isn’t just important when it comes to her children – her nutrition is essential for keeping the entire family at prime operating condition.

Water, Water, and More Water

The number one item missing from the diets of many mothers is water. Coffee and soda do not contain the kind of pure water your body craves to run at optimal condition. Lack of water can spur headaches, fatigue and actually make you feel ill. So grab a big bottle of water and carry it with you. Opt for water or other caffeine and sugar free drinks when eating out, and you may be surprised at the amount of energy you have without your daily lattes and giant cup of soda.

Snacks

Most adults should be eating every two to three hours. Meals, of course, are at regular times, but in-between meals, healthy snacks help keep your metabolism burning and regulate your energy levels. Grab some of the new portion controlled snack pouches, fresh fruit and snack bars to take with you. Raisins, whole grain crackers, and granola bars can stay in your glove box and bag for easy retrieval when the urge to snack appears. And don’t be afraid to grab a few diet program snack bars as these often contain extra vitamins but taste great.

Meals on the Go

When you’re on the road and ready to eat, you have two options. Many fast-food restaurants now offer healthier alternatives, but moms know that you can’t eat a salad while driving. So, you can order that salad on your way to pick up a child, and then take some time to sit and enjoy it in the parking lot rather than the highway. Or, you can pack your own lunch in a small cooler to take with you on the road. With that option, you’re munching on a healthy ham sandwich while you drive car-pool rather than a greasy burger.

Supplements

Finally, every mom should be taking a daily vitamin – especially mothers who are breastfeeding. No matter how much you plan and attempt to get all of your nutrients from food, which is ideal, you should take a vitamin to cover any gaps you might have in your daily diet.