Being healthy can be difficult. The idea of having to give up your favorite snacks, constantly tracking calories, and making meals every day is unbearable for some people. Not only does it affect people’s health over time, but it also affects their wallets.
James Collier, registered dietitian, co-founder of Huel and head of sustainable nutrition, explained that meal preparation is “key” for anyone looking to lose a few pounds.
Not only that, but his handy tips will save you time and money.
Take advantage of your freezer
James explained that many people turn their noses at the freezer, seeing frozen food as “low quality.”
“This is not far from the truth,” he said.
“Freezing is great for preparing meals in bulk. Home-cooked meals are just thawed.
“If you plan to freeze leftovers, overcook the meal a bit so that it’s fully cooked when you defrost and reheat.”
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Make a shopping list and stick to it
Perhaps one of the hardest things a person can do is to ignore the urge to go to the supermarket when hungry and buy unhealthy foods and snacks.
However, James explained that you can end this habit once and for all by preparing your meals.
“Planning ahead helps you avoid unhealthy impulse purchases,” he said.
“Planning your meals for the week in advance will help you know what ingredients to buy.”
But once the urge sets in, he admits how difficult it is to avoid.
He recommends: “It’s also wise not to do the grocery store on an empty stomach.
“It’s easier to tempt when you’re hungry!”
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always have a cupboard stapler
Some foods are in everyone’s cupboard, and while you might be tempted to throw out your canned tomatoes and kidney beans to collect dust, they are very important when it comes to meal preparation. said James.
Needless to say, they are also suitable for people’s wallets.
“Whether it’s canned tomatoes, beans, or spices, we always have them at home,” he said.
“Even if you forget an ingredient or something isn’t available, there’s always enough ingredients to make a meal on the spot.
“Spices can help you create completely different meals from the same ingredients.”
He suggested using smoked paprika in Spanish-style dishes, or, if people prefer Chinese food, sprinkling five-spice powder on their food.
meal replacement
You may not be in a rush to prepare dinner for the next week, or you may run out of certain ingredients and don’t have time to stop by the store.
That’s where meal replacements come in. James says it’s very useful at times like this.
“Sometimes you can’t get anything or you’re in a big hurry,” he said.
“This is where Huel comes in. Huel Ready-to-drink is nutritionally complete, just shake and twist the cap and you’re ready to go.
“I know I’m eating delicious, healthy meals. If I’m going somewhere in a hurry, I can eat on the go.”
“Huel is the ideal nutritious alternative to expensive gas station sandwiches!”
It should be noted that meal replacements should be used occasionally and should not substitute for all healthy meals.
James Collier is a registered dietitian, co-founder of Huel, the world’s leading complete nutrition brand, and head of sustainable nutrition. Here he discovers Huel and buys products.