5 Reasons to Meal Prep on a Busy Schedule

If you are struggling to lose weight, meal prepping may be the secret sauce to driving better results.

We know from our own personal experiences that things tend to run a lot smoother when we take the time to prepare. But let’s face it, our lives are hectic, and adding one more thing to do in the morning may seem like a terrible idea. In fact, a busy schedule is one of the top reasons why people choose fast food meals — which tend to be calorie-dense, higher in fat, lacking in adequate nutrition, and contributing to our growing obesity epidemic.

As a Registered Dietitian, I encourage my clients (and anyone looking to trim down) to plan out their meals and snacks ahead of time, despite these challenges. By doing so, you are less likely to make impulsive and unhealthy food purchases that could derail you off course. Meal prepping is also key to maintaining your body's specific caloric and macronutrient requirements. Without commitment to an eating plan, your overall goal will be difficult and frustrating, leaving you feeling like you are never going to see any results.

The benefits of meal prepping certainly outweigh any perceived costs. Find out why this simple step each week can help make your daily weight loss journey much more satisfying and less challenging.

1.       Keeps You On Track: When your meals are planned out ahead of time, you know what you will be eating for meals and snacks. This helps you avoid any unnecessary stops through the drive through after work when your hunger has taken over.

2.       Portion Controlled: You will be better able to reach calorie and macronutrient goals.

3.       More Free Time: Think about how much time you spend deciding what to eat, or how long it takes you to run to the grocery store each week. You may not think about it but can add up, in addition to the time you take preparing your meals. But if your meals are planned out and prepared ahead of time, you will be able to spend more time doing the things that you love.

4.       Save Money: The cost of fast, "convenience" food and that food you forgot about in the fridge (that is now spoiled), can add up quickly. When you plan your meals in advance, you end up saving money overall.  

5.       Less Stress: There’s nothing worse than coming home after a long day and being frantic about what to make for your family for dinner. With meal planning, it’s already done, which gives you the opportunity to unwind from your work day.

Thinking about meal planning, but not sure where to start? Give us a call today!

Jessica Gloss is a practicing Registered Dietitian and Director of Nutrition at Nutre. She has been in working in clincial nutrition and within the food industry for 10 years and has a passion for helping people find the joy in healthy eating.