Time: 2 Hours
STEP 1: Take 10-15 minutes to make a list of what you want to eat this week. This will help you spend a lot less time at the grocery store. What do you need to eat at breakfast, lunch and dinner to give your body the nutrients it needs? If you’re unsure of where to start, spend some time researching recipes that excite you and read up on how to incorporate meal-planning and meal-prep into your weekly routine—in doing so, you will reduce food waste as well as save time and money on superfluous food costs.
STEP 2: Sundays are a great time to head to the grocery store for the week. I suggest going to the farmer’s market for your fruits and vegetables, and then the grocery or health food store for your meats and grains. Purchase organic or grass-fed meat whenever possible. If you can’t get vegetables organic or at a farmer’s market, be sure to wash them thoroughly before eating. Another option to consider is grocery delivery—this is ideal for those who live in urban areas, are busy for most of the week, and don’t have time to make it to the grocery store. Blue Apron, HelloFresh, and Instacart are three fun options to consider.
STEP 3: If you have time or can adjust your schedule to create the time, prepare a few meals on Sunday afternoon/evening and put them in the refrigerator or freezer so you can warm them throughout the week. If you don’t have time to do that, consider cutting up your vegetables or thawing your meat – anything to make it easier and faster for you during the week.
STEP 4: Crock-pots are an incredible option when you want to eat healthy but are strapped for time. Look up healthy crock-pot recipes for ideas. Prepare your ingredients the night before and place everything into the Crock Pot in the morning before you head to work. Then select your temperature and cook time and return home at the end of your day to a delicious slow-cooked, great smelling meal.
STEP 5: If you know something will be a temptation for you (sodas, sweets, chips, etc.) simply don’t buy them. If they’re not around to tempt you, you’ll be much more successful in avoiding them than if they are in your pantry. You are much less likely to leave your house and drive to the store for a craving. Instead, have something that will satisfy your craving without sacrificing your health goals and intentions for the week…a few pieces of dark chocolate, a healthy smoothie, a few crackers with hummus, or a handful of mixed nuts are great alternatives
