5 Hacks to Simplify Nutrition
Nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the simpler you keep it, the easier it is to make healthy choices that fit into your lifestyle. Here are five practical tips to help you stay on track and make better food choices without overthinking it.
#1: Pre-Plan Your Meals
Planning ahead doesn’t mean you need to meticulously track every calorie. It just means having a general idea of what you’re going to eat so you don’t find yourself scrambling for something unhealthy when hunger strikes. Take a few minutes each night to jot down a simple meal plan for the next day.
For example: oatmeal for breakfast, salad with chicken for lunch, protein smoothie for an afternoon snack, protein, veggie and potatoes for dinner. When meals are planned, you’re less likely to reach for something impulsively.
#2: Prep Your Fridge
One of the easiest ways to make healthier decisions is to ensure that healthy options are readily available. Before your week starts, consider bulk prepping lean meats (like chicken, ground turkey or beef), so you have some protein-dense options when hunger hits. You can also chop up fruits and veggies and story them in clear containers for easy grab-and-go options. Having these ready-to-eat- items in the fridge will help you avoid reaching for something unhealthy when you’re in a rush.
#3: Stick to Minimal Ingredient Foods
Whole foods, like fruits, veggies, lean proteins and grains are not only easy for your body to digest, but they also keep inflammation at bay, and help you feel fuller for longer. By sticking to foods with minimal ingredients, you reduce your exposure to artificial additives and preservations. This simple approach makes it easier for your body to process nutrients and will positively impact your mood and energy levels.
#4: Keep Smart Snacks Handy
We’ve all been there: it’s late afternoon, your energy is crashing, and you're super hungry. Without a healthy snack on hand, you might be tempted to grab something sugary or processed. Keep quick, nutrient-dense snacks like fruit, vegetables, meat sticks, or nuts around to help. These options are not only filling but also help prevent overeating.
#5: Eat Often
Eating every 3-4 hours can help regulate your blood sugar, keep your energy levels steady, and curb hunger. Consistency in fuel helps avoid highs and lows of hunger and cravings, regulating your metabolism and allowing you to stay focused and energized throughout the day.
By keeping your nutrition simple like these habits suggest, you can make better nutrition choices without feeling overwhelmed. Pre-planning, prepping your fridge, choosing whole foods and eating regularly all make healthy eating second nature. Incorporate some of these tips and you’ll be well on your way to feeling better and eating smarter!
Need some additional help? Check out our Beginner Recipe Guide for some easy, getting started meals.