5 Tips for Healthier Meal Planning

If you have decided you want to eat healthier or make some positive changes to your family’s daily meals, congratulations!! Healthy eating might seem like a daunting task, but trust me it’s easier when you PLAN! Yep. You heard me right. Healthier eating begins with planning, then purchasing healthier ingredients. So the Type A in me wants to share my top 5 (somewhat) healthier meal planning secrets…I could probably give you a list of my top 25 but that would be one long (and boring) post.

Here’s a given: When you are at the grocery store, buy plenty o’ fruits and vegetables and PREP (wash and cut) as soon as you get home. You’ll be more likely to use these ingredients if they are cut and ready to eat!

Do NOT plan meals while hungry. I repeat. Do NOT plan meals while hungry. Now you might have heard this rule of thumb for grocery shopping, but I believe it pertains to planning meals as well. Think about it: if you are hungry and perusing Pinterest boards laden with sauces and sugar, you might as well throw in the healthy recipe towel.
Search for recipes in cookbooks, on websites, or in magazines that are likely to have better-for-you recipe options. Some of my favorites include Cooking Light (in print and online) and Martha Stewart (online).
Giada and Williams-Sonoma have some great recipes/cookbooks too!

Don’t take meal planning too seriously… I enjoy some less-healthy options too!
Phone a friend! It’s important to surround yourself with like-minded people when you are trying to reach a health and/or wellness goal. Chances are you have a friend or two that’s also trying to eat healthier. Ask them what they have on the menu this week!
Keep 1-2 favorite recipes (and ingredients) on hand as a fallback dinner option when you are in a time crunch or need a go-to FAST.
Korean BBQ Beef Skillet from www.beefitswhatfordinner.com. THIS is our go-to. I make this recipe once a week (and change up the vegetables for variety).
Scope out healthier restaurant options in your area. Most of us have the best intentions to dine-in and cook homemade, delicious and nutritious meals. The reality is we are all busy and opt for take-out every now and then. Arm yourself with a carry-out menu that won’t break your caloric limit but aim to please your taste buds!