
One of the biggest barriers to eating healthy is time. Whether you're working long hours, managing family responsibilities or juggling a busy social life, it can be tough to prioritize healthy eating. But skipping out on healthy habits can affect your energy levels, focus, immune system and overall well-being. With a few simple strategies, you can make healthy eating fit into your busy lifestyle. Here are some tips to help:
1. Plan ahead.
Taking time each week to plan your meals can help you stay on track. Knowing what you’ll eat throughout the week helps you avoid last-minute takeout and makes grocery shopping more efficient.
2. Choose simple recipes.
Crockpot meals, sheet pan dinners and one-pot recipes are lifesavers for busy people because they don’t require much time to prepare or clean up. They’re also easy to make in large batches to last throughout the week.
3. Save time with convenient ingredients.
There’s nothing wrong with using shortcuts. Pre-chopped vegetables, minced garlic, frozen fruits and vegetables, rotisserie chicken and microwaveable grains like brown rice or quinoa can make cooking and meal prep quicker and easier while still being nutritious.
4. Batch cook.
Whenever possible, cook larger portions and use leftovers for lunches or dinners later in the week. Casseroles, soups, stir-fries and pasta dishes usually hold up well and reheat easily.
5. Keep healthy snacks available.
When you’re on the go, having healthy snacks on hand can help you avoid reaching for chips or candy. Try packing Greek yogurt, trail mix, fruit, protein bars or hummus with baby carrots. Tip: Use a cooler or insulated lunch box if a refrigerator isn’t available.
6. Prep lunch, breakfast and snacks the night before.
Prepping your lunch, breakfast and snacks in the evening saves time in the morning. You’ll avoid last-minute decisions and feel more in control as you start your day.
Try prepping: overnight oats, egg muffins, smoothies or yogurt parfaits.
7. Make cooking enjoyable.
Cooking can feel like a chore, but there are ways to make it fun. Try playing music, listening to a podcast or audiobook, watching a show, involving your family or talking to a friend while you cook.
Find more nutrition tips from Northside Hospital Nutrition Services.