Put An Emphasis on Meal Planning

I will be the first to tell you that I don’t like to cook. That said, I seldom eat out or eat processed food. Why I’m I telling you this? I want to challenge you to put more of an emphasis on meal planning and preparation.

It’s far too easy to let someone else do the cooking for you. I get it. I would love to have someone else cook, plan my food and clean up my kitchen too. But, I want to know what’s in my food. Processed and fast foods contain unhealthy fats, chemicals, preservatives, dyes and artificial ingredients that no one should be eating. These foods make us feel sluggish, unable to think clearly and wreak havoc on your organ system. They are also the food that you will crave over and over again, because carbs, sugar and additives are addicting.

I know you need a little motivation to want to cook for yourself. My motivation is how poorly I feel when I don’t. If you have a desire to feel better, think better, move better and sleep better, what you eat is the first place to start. Get back to the basics of whole foods: meaning fresh vegetables, fruits, meats and healthy fats. It doesn’t have to be complicated. If you don’t like to cook, keep it simple. Fire up the grill, even in the dead of winter. Get out that crock pot. Search the web for recipes. Have a grocery list every time you go to the store. Focus on the perimeter of the store where the fresh food is and limit your need for boxed and ready-made items. Start reading your food labels and educate yourself on what ingredients you should be avoiding: hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup are the big ones!

If jumping in with both feet is too intimidating, start slow. If you don’t cook at all, plan one home-made heathy meal a week. Be sure to make vegetables a part of your planning. They are usually the last thing on the list, but are of utmost importance when it comes to nutrients and healthy fiber. Believe it or not, chopped Brussel sprouts sautéed in olive oil is one of my favorite vegetables. Give it a try!

This all may take more effort and planning than you are used to, but it will be well worth it!