The start of a new school year comes with fresh new fall routines for most families. While this year, many students have begun school remotely or have altered in-school schedules, the new season may bring with it new challenges for families focused on nutrition.
One of those challenges is keeping kids and adults on a healthy diet when we’re cooking and eating at home more than ever. For some parents, this fall will mean more than brown bag lunches made in advance. But it’s possible to meet the needs of everyone in your household with some advance planning.
Smoothies make a healthy breakfast option for students or parents this Back-to-School Season.
Teressa H. is a member of the medical staff at Medical Weight Loss Clinic’s Grandville, Mich. location. She says food planning is your best defense against unhealthy eating – especially as we delve into a new school year.
“When you are rushing and don’t have anything planned, you may find yourself in the fast food line, ordering takeout or popping a frozen pizza in the oven,” Teressa warns. But there’s a way to guard against that by being prepared and organized. Try these three steps:
1. Think by the week, not just today.
Teressa says she makes a menu ahead of time for a full week so she’s prepared with the groceries she needs and the food that can be prepared ahead of time.
2. Sharpen your knives.
By cutting up fresh fruits, vegetables and trimming and seasoning meats you plan to cook, the process of making meals is made much easier. Prep fresh fruits and vegetables so they’re easy to grab and use, straight from the refrigerator.
3. Make more than usual.
“Cook larger portions so you can have leftovers for busy nights,” Teressa says. It truly helps if you cook in batches that can be reheated and revamped into new recipes, in no time. And you’ll know they’re healthy meals, too.
When she’s at home planning to keep herself and her family organized for Back-to-School meals, Teressa says she relies on some healthy and quick options for breakfasts, lunches or snacks. That means she keeps cheese sticks and fresh fruit on hand.
Get your greens. Making three meals a day from home can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
She’ll whip up an egg on an English muffin or a fresh fruit and Greek yogurt smoothie in the blender.
For lunch, raw vegetables and chicken or turkey roll-ups in a low-carb tortilla are a filling alternative to higher-calorie meals. Tuna and crackers also make for a great mid-day meal. What’s your go-to for busy work or school days?
If you’re looking to reach your health goals or need some support on your healthy journey, reach out to Medical Weight Loss Clinic. We can help. Book your free consultation online or by calling 1-800-GET-SLIM.
