Photos: Finding convenient, healthful food items

Frozen vegetables are a good alternative, if you can’t get your hands on the fresh versions.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Frozen foods that don’t have anything added — such as extra sodium or sweeteners — are your best bets.   (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Frozen fruit can easily be added to foods; throw the fruit into smoothies straight from the freezer, or thaw and add to yogurt.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Add some greens to your meal by purchasing pre-washed salads and having alongside your dinner. They’re conveniently packed and cut back on prep time.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Skip the bottled salad dressings and make your own with oil and vinegar: You’ll skip alot of the preservatives and sweeteners that way.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Lee says hummus is a good, quick snack to have with vegetables, such as baby carrots. Hummus can also be a healthful substitute for mayonnaise.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Chunky, fresh salsas can be a good addition to omelets, vegetables, chicken salads and fish.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Brown rice can be cooked at the beginning of the week and serve as a healthful addition to packed lunches or dinners.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Nuts can be something nutritious to add onto salads, or to have as a snack. Look for those with little to no flavoring #8212; just be sure to check the nutritional label on the back of the container.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)

Drinks often sneak sugar into items you may not suspect: Iced tea is one example of this. Brewing your own tea can be much more healthful than buying the bottled version.  (Cheryl A. Guerrero / Los Angeles Times)