Meal prepping can help you regulate what you eat and help you stay on track with your personal eating goals. This is typically done by using predetermined portion sizes, creating foods you will actually enjoy, and enjoying all the benefits of nutritious food. The hardest part of meal prepping might just be getting started. Most of the time, it seems like a tedious process, but once you discover easy recipes and find the time to devote, meal prep will have a long-lasting effect on your health.
1. Make your breakfast the night before.
Prepping your breakfast beforehand allows you to make something healthy, and save time during the mornings when just don't have enough of it. It's been noted that those who eat healthier breakfasts are more likely to eat more vitamins and minerals, control their weight and manage blood sugar levels.
2. Don't listen to social media.
Removing the stigma of what a meal "should" look like means not everything has to be picture-perfect. Lunch can be scrambled eggs and toast or a sampler plate of different crackers, cheese, and fruit, and dinner can be a sandwich.
3. Prepare your pantry.
Always have nonperishable goods handy just in case you need to prepare something last-minute or need a backup meal. Think of a few pantry staples to always keep stocked so that you can realistically make meals in a pinch when you're running low on fresh groceries. For example, keep a few cans of beans, a can of crushed tomatoes, and some dried spices to create a base for any chili.
4. Be versatile with your groceries.
Purchase groceries that you know you'll use for more than one dish. It saves you money, and no food will go to waste. Another suggestion is to think of portable grab-and-go foods such as bananas, individual nut packs, guacamole and hummus packs, cheeses, and yogurts.