5 tips to take away the stress of nutritious eating
As the saying goes, “failing to prepare is preparing to fail.” This sentiment holds true, especially when it comes to successful meal planning. The organisation, planning, and scheduling of meals and snacks are crucial for managing budgets, achieving nutritional goals, and ensuring the ease of following a well-structured eating plan.
Below are 5 tips that are crucial for successful nutrition.
- Write a grocery list.
Before each grocery trip, take the time to create a thorough list. Go through your pantry and refrigerator, identifying items that need replenishing. Plan the meals you intend to prepare and note any new items required for purchase. Having a list not only guarantees that you have the necessary ingredients for nutritious meals and snacks but also helps prevent any additional, unplanned items from finding their way into your shopping cart.
2. Don’t like left overs, don’t plan for them!
Not everyone enjoys consuming meals prepared the day before, and if that applies to you, it’s best not to include them in your plans. Instead, consider minimising evening preparation time by dedicating some time over the weekend to slicing fresh fruits and vegetables, portioning proteins, and preparing marinades or salad dressings. This way, when the day comes to an end, all you need to do is cook, leading to a substantial reduction in both preparation and cleanup time.
3. Invest in some good storage.
Never underestimate the effectiveness of high-quality meal prep containers. Ensure that your containers are airtight, safe for microwave use, and dishwasher-friendly. Bonus points if they come in a bento-style design.
4. Buy pre-portioned snacks.
While it may not be the most budget-friendly approach, it will undoubtedly minimise the likelihood of grazing or mindless eating. Opt for snacks that are already portioned to help regulate your intake. Examples include pre-packaged portions of cheese and crackers, popcorn, protein bars, a piece of fruit, or a small tub of yogurt. Additionally, consider 30g cartons of nuts or seeds for convenient and controlled snacking.
5. Always have a back up.
Feeling too exhausted? Arrived home late? Someone else enjoyed the leftovers you intended to have tonight? Always have a backup plan!
Think about keeping a meal replacement product or a pre-prepared high-protein, calorie-portioned meal in the fridge or freezer. Options like YouFoodz, PerForm Soup (available at Coles), or Muscle Strength Co (found at Woolworths) can be lifesavers for nights when things don’t go as planned.
