Do you always have the best intentions to eat healthy and then see life get in the way? Lack of time is no longer a viable excuse. Here’s how to keep healthy eating in the forefront of your mind even when you’re busy with family, friends and work.
Keep it Clean
Whether you’re cooking at home or out on the town, keep this tip in mind with every single meal and snack. Replace processed foods with clean, or whole and natural items. When you eat clean, think about it like you’re filling up on your car with premium fuel, allowing your body to perform at its top potential. Making this shift in your mind is vital to sustaining a healthy diet. You’ll also find that natural choices for your meals are more satisfying in taste. It will completely change your relationship with healthy food.
Plan your Meals
Heading to the store without a shopping list in hand can lead to some big spending and guilty decisions. Not only are you more likely to be unsatisfied with your thrown-together meal options (and call in takeout instead), but it’s also easier to buy junk if a plan isn’t in place. Spend time once a week to find healthy recipes and come up with a delicious menu that will make you excited to get cooking. Also make note of when you have lunch or dinner plans for the upcoming week so you don’t throw out uneaten food (and money) week after week. Using a planner, Pinterest and more will keep you organized and prepped in no time.
Bulk shop, cook and prep on the weekend so that at least your breakfast and lunches for the week are ready to go. Having the fridge stocked with healthy options that are available for you to just grab and run out the door will ensure that you stay on track. Put aside 1-2 hours on the weekend to get this together and you will be happy you did.
Prep on Sunday
Once all that food makes its way home, put it to good use! Spend some time to prep your kitchen for the week to eventually make healthy eating and cooking feel like second nature. Remember, leave fresh produce out in plain sight, make and freeze smoothie bags for quick and satisfying breakfasts and prep salads for the week for the easiest packed lunch ever. Taking the time to prep everything might seem like a pain, but it will make for an easier week.
Double Up
If you’re constantly running late or on the go, you should never only cook enough food for just one meal. Package leftovers in containers so you can easily grab meals for the next few days. If lunch or dinner is already prepared, you won’t be tempted to call in takeout or eat whatever everything in sight. Be sure to package up extra portions as soon as possible so you don’t eat double and sabotage your healthy goals.
Plan for Indulgences
Occasionally enjoying a sweet treat is an essential part of a sustainable healthy-eating plan. When you know you’re going to eat an over-the-top burger at your barbecue or an ice cream cone with friends, make a point to keep your diet extra clean leading up to it. It makes the whole experience that much sweeter.
Research Restaurants
Eating out might be a necessity – or an experience you’re not willing to give up! Be sure to look up restaurant menus to make sure there are options that suit your needs. Don’t hesitate to call, ask questions or request something special. You should never feel embarrassed about taking your healthy goals seriously. Chances are you’ll inspire someone at the table to do the same.
Break Out the Crock Pot
Whether you are single or feeding an entire family, the slow cooker is always a lifesaver. Prep all of the ingredients the night before, pop them in on your way out the door in the morning and viola, a perfectly cooked meal is the way to go. Start with onions and root veggies on the bottom, then a nice piece of grass-fed meat, or some beans, then some broth or diced tomatoes. The best part? You’ll have plenty of leftovers.
Healthy eating in today’s world may seem a stretch, but the goal is attainable. By applying our steps to your everyday work week, you’ll have a healthier lifestyle guaranteed.