Meal planning is one of the easiest ways to start eating healthy while cutting back on extra calories. The real beauty of it is there are no rules and guidelines to it. Simply plan your meals in advance, get busy cooking and pack them into separate containers or cook them fresh when you have the time.
However, meal planning should not only be about losing weight and should help you shape a healthier lifestyle. Proper meal planning will not only help you cut down on grocery bills but will also help you save up on time and energy. Here’s how to take a holistic approach to meal planning:
Start Looking for Healthy Recipes
Before you start prepping delicious meals, you need to spend time looking for awesome recipes on the internet. There are tons of blogs and websites out there that publish a list of healthy recipes. Additionally, get some cookbooks and start highlighting easy and delicious recipes.
Choose a Style of Planning
You cannot plan a complicated 4-course meal for yourself in advance if you have a busy schedule and do not have time to cook. Select a suitable style of planning that addresses your situation. Your eating situation may vary from week to week, depending on your work schedule. Take a quick inventory of what’s going on for you next week to come up with a suitable plan to help you save more time.
Plan with Proteins
While planning meals, the first thing you should be concerned about is protein. If you have planned a balanced meal with enough fats, carbohydrates and proteins, cut down on snacks and sugary desserts for the day. Aim for at least one serving of protein for every meal. You can choose from chicken, canned tuna or boiled eggs.
Keep a Well Stocked Pantry
Meal planning is bound to become a whole lot easier if you have a well stocked pantry. Stock up on staples, such as pasta, olive oils and spices. This will allow you to quickly prepare meals without worrying about running to the grocery store.
Do Not Overstuff the Fridge
Do not overstuff the fridge as it will increase the risk of things going bad. Try stocking up on canned veggies so they last longer in the pantry. Maintain a list of everything that is in the fridge, including leftovers as it will serve as a reminder of what needs to be eaten.
