Preparing healthy meals for a fitness life can be challenging, especially when you are trying to fit all your tupperware containers in the fridge just right. However, with some planning and preparation, it is possible to create nutritious meals that support your fitness goals on a budget.
1. Plan your meals in advance: plan your meals for the week ahead to avoid making impulsive decisions when you are busy or tired. Chose meals that are high in protein, fibre and healthy fats and low in refined carbohydrates.
2. Prep your ingredients: take some time to prepare your ingredients in advance, such as washing and chopping vegetables, cooking grains and marinating meats. This can save you time during the week and make meal perp much quicker and easier.
3. Use a slow cooker: slow cookers can save you time as a busy person. You can prepare a healthy meal in advance, and it’ll cook while you’re smashing your workout at the gym or while you are at work.
4. Make large batches: cook large batches of food on the weekends and freeze portions for use in the week ahead. This can save you time and money and ensure you have a healthy meal always at hand.
5. Protein with every meal: protein is important for repairing muscle, so be sure to add protein with every meal. Good sources of protein include chicken, fish, lean meats, tofu, beans, and lentils.
6: Get full of vegetables: vegetables are a great source of fibre, vitamins, and minerals and can help you feel full and satisfied. Eat the colours of the rainbow such as lots of leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.
7: Avoid processed foods: for the most part this is true but a little won’t hurt. However, processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, and refined carbohydrates. Instead choose whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
8: Enjoy your fats: healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, small amounts of saturated fats, fats from oily fish and olive oil, are important for brain function hormone production. Try to include a source a healthy fat in each meal to help you keep satiated.
Trying to eat healthy on a budget can be a challenge but remember your bank account will thank you when you’re not spending money on takeout and pizza delivery. It’s important to take your health seriously, it’s also important to have a little fun, enjoy the process of preparing healthy meals for a fitness lifestyle.
Happy Training, Happy Eating!
Mark
