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With today’s busy schedules, maintaining a healthy diet seems almost impossible. Though most Americans recognize the importance of eating fruit and vegetables, they often forego them for convenience sake. Today wholesome snacks providing healthy nutrients are available to fit in your purse, briefcase, or gym bag. Nutriceuticals (aka Nutraceutical), or functional foods, are food products sold as fortified meal replacements. These food bars and drinks supply added nutrients and/or have a therapeutic effect on the body. Below is a list of commonly available nutriceuticals:

Green drinks: Nutrient-rich concentrate of grasses and green vegetables. Green drinks provide enzymes, antioxidants, herbs, and other ingredients in a chlorophyll-rich powdered base. Mix the powder with water and drink. These drinks increase energy and improve mood, memory, sleep, digestion, bowel mobility, and circulation. Examples of green drinks include wheat grass juice, barley grass, or combinations of kamut grass, lemon grass, kale, spinach, parsley, and/or other grasses.

Chlorella: Chlorella is a single-celled alga, and one of the most efficient, natural, whole foods available on earth. Chlorella is believed to contain all nutrients needed to support life. Cracked cell wall Chlorella provides a tremendous source of concentrated nutrition.

Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll is often referred to as "the blood of a plant." In humans, chlorophyll resembles hemoglobin in atom structure which allows it to absorb into the body and quickly rebuild the blood. Sources of chlorophyll include all green vegetables, “green drinks”, spirulina, and chlorella. Concentrated chlorophyll is available in liquid or tablet form.

Spirulina: Spirulina, known as a “super food”, is a highly nutritious blue-green algae. Spirulina contains over 100 nutrients – more than any other plant. It is used to increase energy, and to assist in weight loss and detoxification.

Live juices: Juice made from raw vegetables and/or fruit is considered “live” if consumed within 20 minutes of its preparation while its enzymes are still active. Live or raw juices are a delicious and convenient way to provide nutrients, including vitamins and minerals.

Nut & Seed bars: Usually gluten-free, nut & seed bars are highly satisfying and rich in fiber, protein, and omega-6 fats. A person with allergies to nuts must read labels carefully to avoid ingredients that might trigger a reaction.

Granola bars: Granola bars are popular snacks which offer the fiber, nutrients, and carbohydrates of granola pressed and baked into a convenient bar shape. Look for granola bars that are high in fiber, low in sugar, and free of hydrogenated or partially-hydrogenated fats.

Protein bars: Protein bars are often used as meal replacements providing supplemental forms of protein. The protein source is often whey, soy, rice, or hemp seed.

Protein powders: Protein powders are not just for bodybuilders anymore They are a convenient way to include more protein in the diet. Medical research has shown that protein powder can: significantly boost immune function; reduce cortisol levels; repair tissues and muscles; balance blood sugar levels; and promote healthy skin. Protein powders are made from whey (dairy), egg, soy, rice, or hemp protein. Formula preparations often include other ingredients like digestive enzymes and sweeteners. Look for additive-free and aspartame-free products. A protein shake is easy to make by mixing a scoop of protein powder with water or any type of milk. It may also be added to cereals or baked goods.