Fall is quickly approaching, which can be an overwhelming time of transition. September tends to be more fast-paced and our healthy habits can be placed on the backburner as we head back to the grind at work. During busy times, many of us reach for convenience items to save time, especially when at work or on-the-go. Although easier to do, these costs can add up quickly and they are not always the most nutritious choices. Before making any lifestyle change, it is important to start out slow and keep yourself accountable. This will allow you to build your confidence in meal-prepping and develop sustainable healthy
Check out these 5 meal prep tips:
1. Create a routine
For successful meal prepping, developing a plan and prep schedule is key. Choose a day that you will draft a meal plan for the following week, build your shopping list and go grocery shopping. Finally, decide when you’ll have the most time to do most of the prep work. It can be a weekend day, or a weekday evening – whatever works best for your schedule.
2. Organize your pantry
Pantry items are especially helpful for meal prepping, so knowing what you have on hand is crucial. Try organizing your food storage (i.e. pantry, fridge and freezer) in categories and ensure that everything is visible. Taking inventory of bulk or staple items like rice, canned goods and spices every few weeks is useful to make sure you never run out of what you need!
3. Start out simple
When you are first learning about how to meal prep, you don’t need to choose fancy and complex dishes. Try starting out with preparing grab-and-go snacks like chopped up veggies, yogurt parfaits or homemade trail mix. You can even start out with prepping individual items that can added to a variety of meals and make different dressings or spice mixes to add variety to your menu. This can include grilled chicken, rice, hard boiled eggs, and roasted vegetables.
4. Choose versatile ingredients
When planning your meals, choose foods that can be used in a few different dishes. This not only saves costs, but prep time and storage space as well. For example, quinoa can work as a side dish, be added to salads, or be used to make veggie burgers; canned tuna can be added to sandwiches, pasta salads or even a casserole!
5. Learn to multitask
Do you find that you cook less at home because each recipe takes too long? If so, meal prepping can help! Organize your recipes by cooking time, cooking method and utensils required and learn to multitask so you can maximize your time and meals made. For example, try chopping your veggies while your potatoes are roasting, or use the same pot for your noodles as you used for your rice.
If you’re looking for more meal prep tips during this next transition, this is the challenge for you! Sign up for the 30-Day Meal Prep Challenge, and work with a FSEAP Registered Dietitian to create lifelong change.
Throughout this challenge, your FSEAP Registered Dietitian will provide you with guidance and support to help you create your goals and succeed. Having a FSEAP dietitian in your corner means you’ll have all the resources you need to succeed, as well as be held accountable for your progress and stay motivated throughout. We know you can do it!
The 30-Day Meal-Prep Challenge
This September, sign up for the 30-Day Meal Prep Challenge and collaborate with a FSEAP Registered Dietitian. They will work with you side by side and personalize a nutrition plan to your needs.
In this 30-Day Meal Prep Challenge, you will:
• Discuss your progress with your Registered Dietitian in 30-minute weekly conversations.
• Be supported and coached throughout the entire 30-day journey.
• Receive practical information, recipes, and tips to keep you motivated, focused and successful!
Challenge Accepted? Call FSEAP to sign up for the 30-Day Meal Prep Challenge, or to find out about the Nutrition Counselling Services.