What if you don't like leftovers?
It is popular to meal prep in order to manage portion sizes, and ensure a balanced and healthy diet. Some people do not enjoy leftovers and therefore question whether meal preparation is worth it. We will explore the benefits and drawbacks of meal preparation for people who do not enjoy eating leftovers. This article is backed up by studies and research. You will learn about its importance and how to start, as well as examples of meals that don't rely on leftovers.
Why meal prepping is important
Nutrition is no exception. Preparation in all aspects of your life is essential. Meals prepared in advance can be a great way to control portion size, reduce waste, promote healthy eating, and save money and time. Meal prepping is an excellent tool for individuals who are struggling to lose weight and manage their caloric intake. A study in the International Journal of Behavior Nutrition and Physical Activity found that meal planning was associated with more variety and lower obesity levels.
Get Started with Meal Preparation Without Leftovers
You should choose recipes you can prepare each day if you don't like leftovers. Choose meals with quick cooking times, or that contain components that are easy to prepare in advance. Use a slow-cooker or an instant pot to make different meals using the same ingredients. According to a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, spending over 2 hours at home cooking is associated with healthier eating habits.
Fresh Meal Prep Examples
- Jars for salads: Place ingredients in a glass jar, and place in the refrigerator. Shake it when ready to eat.
- Blend all ingredients together in a freezer bag. Once ready, blend your liquid of choice with the ingredients.
- Stir-fry: Prepare all vegetables and proteins in advance. When you are ready to eat, it takes just minutes to prepare.
- Easy to customize and baked daily.
- It takes very little time to prepare fresh meats and veggies each day.
- Tacos: The ingredients can be prepared ahead and assembled as soon as you are ready to eat.
- Pasta can be prepared in advance and only takes minutes to prepare.
- Combine your grains, proteins and vegetables to create a Buddha bowl.
- Prepare all ingredients in advance for quick assembly.
- Recipes that can be made in the Instant Pot: Most recipes require only one pot and less than 30 min.
Other Tips to Successfully Prepare Meals
Plan different meals each week, and include a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, proteins and grains. Spices, herbs and marinades can be used to enhance flavor without adding extra calories or sodium. According to a study published in Health Education & Behavior, learning cooking techniques and using resources for meal planning can help improve the quality of your diet.
Conclusion
Even those who dislike leftovers should consider meal prepping. Meal prepping can be a great way to save time, control portions, and enjoy nutrient-rich meals. Finding a balance between your food and lifestyle is key.
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