It’s that time of year again! Fall and the upcoming holidays always seem to throw us (and our diets) into chaos. Unfortunately, this can lead to take-out, fast food, and convenience meals that contribute to holiday weight gain. Add holiday stress and this is a recipe for disaster!
This year let’s make a pre-holiday resolution to avoid the take out and fast food by planning ahead and sticking to our game plan. Start with one meal at a time:
- Eat breakfast at home or pack it ahead of time to take with you:
- Whole grain toast with peanut butter
- Yogurt and fruit on the run
- Hard boiled eggs ready to go
- Mini egg frittatas (add cheese or meat to your liking!)
- Pack a healthy lunch (or make one at home) that know you will enjoy and be satisfied with
- Cook an extra chicken breast with dinner then slice it with your favorite salad
- Try frozen black bean burgers (no bun) topped with salsa, cheese, and avocado
- Deli meat roll-ups
- Keep healthy snack options at home and work for convenience, get rid of the junk food
- Cottage cheese cups with diced pineapple or diced veggies
- Low fat string cheese sticks
- Pre-portioned nuts
- Cut-up veggies and Greek yogurt ranch dip
- Have quick dinner ingredients on hand
- Pre-seasoned fish from the grocery and frozen veggies to microwave
- Rotisserie chicken and pre-packaged salad
- Jarred tomato sauce, lean ground beef, pre-made veggie noodles (zucchini squash spirals can be found in many produce departments now!)
Convenience meals don’t have to be fat-laden and high calorie. Being wise in your choices and a little bit of preparation can make eating healthy during this crazy time of year easier. Some other ingredients for quick meals to keep in your freezer and pantry: canned tuna, riced cauliflower/broccoli, frozen vegetables, and canned beans.
What tips do you have? Share those or questions with me at Marlena Farley!
