Eating well if you’ve got a lot on your plate from a scheduling perspective is ironically difficult to do. A combination of planning and willpower is needed to stick to the straight and narrow, so here are some tips that will make your nutritional targets less of a chore to hit consistently.

Get Healthy Meals Delivered

The simplest solution for people with a packed schedule who want to keep to a particular dietary regimen is to order from brands like Factor that provide quick & easy dinners delivered to your doorstep.

We’re not talking about meal kits here, as these still take precious time to prepare. Rather this is about jumping on the prepared meal bandwagon, where you’ll enjoy fresh ingredients and chef-designed dishes that look good, taste better, and are eminently health-conscious.

Prep Breakfast in Advance

Waking up to a nutritious breakfast sets a positive tone for the rest of your day – and studies show that it is better to eat well early on in the day, rather than minimizing caloric intake at this point. 

Rather than snaffling down the empty calories of sugary cereal, consider preparing these early morning treats in advance:

  • Overnight Oats: Mix rolled oats with yogurt, milk, or a dairy-free alternative like apple juice, and leave them in the fridge overnight. In the morning, top with fruits and nuts.
  • Smoothie Packs: Prepare and freeze portions of fruits and vegetables. Blend with a protein source like Greek yogurt or protein powder for a quick shake when you wake.
  • Egg Muffin Cups: Once a week, bake eggs with vegetables in muffin tins. Grab-and-go each morning.

Snack Smarter

Snacks are often where diets go awry – and can make up as much as 27% of daily calorie intake. But with smart choices, light bites between meals can be a source of sustained energy. Here are some strats for effortless yet nutritious snacking:

  • Pre-Packed Vegetables: Keep carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber slices in grab-and-go bags. Raw veggies like this are particularly nutrient-rich, and can aid with overall health, as well as being advantageous if you’re undergoing specific treatment programs, such as physical therapy.
  • Nuts and Seeds: A small handful of almonds or sunflower seeds delivers a healthy dose of fats and proteins.
  • Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Layer Greek yogurt with frozen berries and a sprinkle of granola. It takes a matter of moments to do, and will keep you satisfied for hours.

Have Lunch in a Flash

Lunch doesn’t have to be elaborate to be nutritious and satisfying – and this is particularly important given that 48% of professionals skip lunch on a weekly basis. 

Here are some ideas for quick, healthy lunches that you can assemble in minutes, and eat at your convenience:

  • Wrap It Up: Use whole grain wraps filled with roasted chicken, mixed greens, and avocado slices.
  • Bowl Basics: Combine quinoa, black beans, chopped veggies, and a dollop of hummus.
  • Soup Solutions: Opt for pre-made or easy-to-assemble soups like lentil or vegetable. Pair with a slice of whole-grain bread.

Make Evening Meals Efficient

It’s wise to end your day with a dinner that’s as nutritious as it is quick to prepare – leaving you with more time to focus on other things, whether that’s spending time with the family or learning a new skill

So if you’d still like to cook for yourself but don’t want to spend hours in front of the stove, here’s how you can whip up a healthy evening meal in less time than it takes to order takeout:

  • Stir-Fry Smarts: Toss your favorite vegetables and a protein like shrimp or tofu into a hot pan. Serve over pre-cooked rice or noodles.
  • Sheet Pan Suppers: Layer chicken breasts, potatoes, and asparagus on a sheet pan. Season and bake for a no-fuss meal.
  • Instant Pot Magic: Utilize an Instant Pot for quick stews or one-pot dishes featuring beans, lean meats, and veggies.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, a busy life is no excuse for slacking on nutrition – and so long as you follow these tips and start changing your routine today, you’ll feel and see the results sooner than you’d think.

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