Time limitations, a desire for convenience, and managing the budget are common concerns I hear voiced when it comes to poor eating habits. Younger runners tend to frequent the dollar menu at the drive thru after practice.  Or, they often consider ramen noodles and Kool-Aid staples of the diet.  Older runners gradually tire of cooking.  They have a demanding work or carpool schedule that adds a hurdle to the amount of time dedicated to meal preparation.   

We can all use reminders that healthy meal planning needs to remain a priority.  Think of the many occasions you racked your brain to determine a way to fit in a run when it otherwise seemed impossible.  Meal planning should be thought of in a similar fashion.  Meals can be kept simple, but packed full of nutrition.  

Are convenient foods healthy?  In world with demanding lifestyles, the best thing you can do is to always make effort in getting the best nutrition you can out of the circumstance in which you live. Stock your cupboard with staple foods that are affordable, reliable, and nutritious to minimize your mealtime scrabble and keep you fueled for training. Try to aim for healthy convenience when it is necessary.