I don’t have time to eat healthy!
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If there is one thing we might all wish for, time is likely near the top of our list. Time scarcity, the feeling of never having enough time, is something we feel at some point in our week, month, or year. This barrier, lack of time, gets in the way of eating well too. As we squeeze in more work and social obligations, we often slide past the drive through, vending machine, or maybe even a meal out as we cruise from place to place. We eat fast, we eat distracted, and we eat too much. This leads to less enjoyment of our food, too many calories, and often not enough key nutrients.
We may not ever feel like there is enough time. However, being better fueled as we move through our hectic lives can make feel energized and sleep better. Take time to save time and your health in the long run with these tips:
- Take the time to plan - Give yourself 10-20 minutes once a week to take inventory of your kitchen, write your grocery list, and review your weekly calendar.
- Take time to cook - Find a day in your week when you have time to do some prep – chopping, cooking, etc. so you can easily add these foods to create a meal. Batch cook. Eat leftovers or reuse in a creative way.
- Take time to meal plan - It can be on the spot or days ahead. Keep it simple (throw away notions that the food must pair well or otherwise – if it is nutritious, it works)! Fill your plate accordingly: Divide your plate in ½. Fill one side with vegetables, fruit, or a combination of both. The other side, divide again. In one quarter, add your favorite grain or starchy food. In the final quarter, choose a protein rich food such as fish, beans, lentils, or lean meat.
- Take time to pack it - carry nutritious foods in our work or gym bag to add to a purchased meal or eat as a snack.
Take a moment. You, your diet, and your health are worth it,
Kate