Successful weight loss starts with meal planning. Yet, many dieters skip this step because they find it too confusing or time consuming. The truth is that meal prep can save you time and money. By planning your meals, you’ll spend fewer hours in the kitchen. On top of that, you’ll always have healthy foods at hand.
So, are you ready to give it a try? Here are some must-read rules of successful meal planning:
Pick a Day
The first step is to decide when you’re going to cook your meals. Pick a day when you have more free time, such as on Sundays or Friday evening. You will need a few hours to buy groceries and prep your meals for the week ahead. If you can’t do everything at once, go shopping a few days before cooking your food.
Count Your Macros
Determine how much protein, carbs, and fat you should eat in order to lose weight. These numbers vary from one person to the next, so avoid cookie-cutter diets. Once you know your macros, come up with a list of foods that fit those numbers. For instance, if you need to eat 150 grams of protein a day, look for recipes with chicken breast, turkey, beef, fish, low fat dairy, and other high-protein foods.
Stick to the Basics
Bacon-wrapped scallops and toffee high-protein cake may sound great, but they take hours to cook. If you want to keep meal prep simple, stick to the basics. Each meal should include a source of lean protein and complex carbs or healthy fats. Some examples include grilled salmon with vegetable salad, roasted chicken with mushrooms, or oatmeal with whey protein. Opt for simple meals that are easy to cook and store.
Have a Shopping List
Never go shopping for food without a grocery list! Write down everything you need to buy, from coconut flour to meat, spices, and fresh produce. This way, you won’t have any excuse to give into temptation during the week. Don’t forget to buy a cooler or insulated meal bag for storing your food while at work or on the go.
