One of my goals for the year has been to eat healthier and to cook at home more often. Busy work schedules and lack of preparation have made this a little hard, but luckily I’ve been able to find a solution that has really been helpful: Meal prepping.
So, what are some benefits of meal prepping?
YOU CAN SAVE SOME SERIOUS COINS
For those who think eating healthy will break the bank, it really won't. Meal prepping will save you money because you can buy items in bulk and stretch meals out throughout the week. Just think of all the money you will save not buying lunch every day at school or work! Always stock up on certain items when they're on sale, like chicken, shrimp, rice, salads, etc. You can always freeze what you do not need and then have it for the next week.
Photo: Pixabay
YOU CAN MULTITASK LIKE A #BOSS
Meal prepping is perfect for those of us that are always on the go. All you need is some groceries and a seriously positive mindset. Pick a day (my favorite day is Sunday) for meal prepping and get to cooking all your meals for the week. While you’re at it, pack yourself some snacks too.
I like to plan for at least the next three to four days. This way, I can go to bed knowing I am set (food-wise) for the week, and it will help to take away the temptation of spending money on food. Once you get the hang of it, you will not want to live life any other way.
So now that you see some of the benefits, what are some ways that you can take action?
Here are some of my favorite tips to make sure that I set myself up for success every day:
1. PLAN AHEAD
Staying on track is a no-brainer if you prepare correctly. Plan all your meals before you hit the grocery store and go in with a dedicated list of ingredients to shop for.
2. START YOUR DAY WITH A HEALTHY MINDSET
Have a good morning (and a healthy breakfast), and you’re likely to continue to practice healthy decisions all day long.
3. PRACTICE MINDFUL SNACKING
Healthy snacking has helped me maintain my weight for the last year or so, without feeling deprived or like I’m on a diet.
I want to make sure I don’t reach for something off my diet when I’m feeling famished. Fruit cups and pre-packaged veggies are always a must when you are trying to eat healthily.
Instead of reaching for a bag of chips at break time, I have been loving the Del Monte fruit cups instead. According to their site, this is one of the first fruit cup designed specifically for us adults, and they’ve just made life a little easier on all of us. You can always make your own fruit cups at home too. The options are endless.
4. MAINTAIN VARIETY
Whether you are doing low carb, carb cycling, or just practicing mindfulness in your eating, do some research and figure out some meals that fit with your certain diet or lifestyle, so you never run out of options or get bored with your food.
Yes, we are eating to fuel our bodies, but cooking and snacking should be enjoyable and fun! Play around with some healthy options and find your new favorite snack or meal that you will actually look forward to making in the coming weeks.
Whether you can find these delicious new snacks at your favorite grocery store or make them at home — happy eating!
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