Basic Principles of Meal Planning

How you decide to plan out meals may vary for everyone. But there are a couple important points to always keep in mind.

Consistency

Managing meals and planning can be challenging for individuals within the 19 to 55 age group, as life often presents unexpected twists and turns. Even with our best efforts, it's unrealistic to always expect flawless meal planning. Life is active, and circumstances change.

In moments when your meal plans don't go as planned, it's crucial to persevere. There's no such thing as failure in this situation. Instead, view deviations from your plans as opportunities to adapt and learn.

Think about both successful and challenging days. Each experience offers valuable insights into your food habits and preferences. Take these lessons and use them to refine your meal planning so it works for you.

It's important to recognize that meal planning is a skill that requires practice and patience. By consistently preparing meals, you're investing in your well-being and striving towards your goals. Remember, it's about progress, not perfection. Keep experimenting, learning, and nourishing your body to feel your best.

Variety

Recognizing that a diverse range of foods can contribute to a balanced diet is crucial for individuals. Long-term sustainability in healthy eating centers on incorporating variety and flexibility in food choices.

Many individuals may find themselves in situations where they feel forced to consume foods they don't enjoy simply because they perceive them as healthy. However, this approach is neither enjoyable nor sustainable.

Instead, it is beneficial to explore new foods to discover nutritious options that really appeal to you. Consider experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create meals that are enjoyable and nourish your body.

Take the time to identify nutritious foods that align with your tastes and preferences. Explore how you can combine these foods with other food groups to create satisfying and delicious meals. By embracing a more personalized approach to nutrition, you can improve your relationship with food and look forward to enjoying your meals every day.

What to do if all else fails

Have a backup plan! Instead of resorting to takeout because you “have nothing to eat at home,” you can have some staple foods you like always stocked to help you make a healthy choice in a pinch.

I recommend always having ingredients for 1-2 last-minute meals ready to go home. Store them in the freezer for emergencies!

This meal should be one that you know off the top of your head that can quickly whip together.

Or it could be something like a bag of “Ready Rice” that takes a couple minutes in the microwave, and a can of tuna. Go with whatever works for you, and keeps you on track.

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