Probably one of the most common excuses for not eating healthy, is that you don’t have enough time or it’s too much effort. If you really want it, you will make the time. But you can make it easier on yourself (and save yourself some money) by being prepared. “Failing to prepare, is preparing to fail”
Preparing your meals in advance will make it easier for you in the week when you are busy with work, family and other commitments. Here’s how to be a pro at meal prepping and sticking to your healthy eating plan.
1. Decide on your meals for the week
Write down every single meal and snack you are going to be eating for the entire week. It may seem like a bit of effort but over time this will become easier. Plus it is all about saving you time! You can do this while you’re waiting somewhere, on public transport, or even on your lunch break at work. Save it onto your phone if you have to. Check out my daily diet and clean eating guidelines to give you some ideas.
2. Grocery shopping
Write out a grocery shopping list based on your weekly meal plan. Double check it to make sure you’ve got everything covered and do not buy anything that is not on your grocery list! You should never do your groceries while you are hungry because this just makes all of the junk food too tempting. Make sure you have eaten before hand.
3. Prepare your meals in advance
On the weekend, prepare any foods that you need for the following week. For example, if you are going to be having a salad or a sandwich for lunches, cook the meat, roast any vegetables you need to and divide it into tupperware containers. I usually make enough to last me 3 meals and then do another food preparation mid-week so that my lunches are fresh.
Before you go to bed, prepare any food you need for the following day. For example, I prepare my breakfasts every night. That way, in the morning when you’re in a rush, you don’t even have to think about breakfast and won’t be tempted to stop and pick up some food on the way to work. At night time, put all of your food (lunch, snacks and breakfast if you eat that at work) in a bag in the fridge. And don’t forget to take it with you to work the next day!
Dinners can be harder to prepare and are probably best cooked just prior to eating it. Make sure your dinners aren’t too complicated so they are quick and easy to prepare. If you can, make a double portion so you can have the rest for left overs tomorrow night!
It’s FREE