It’s easy to slip out of your fitness routine during the summer months. Invitations to backyard cookouts, fairs and festivals along with sampling delicious foods on vacations makes it easy to add on a few pounds during the summer months.
That’s why ‘back to school’ season can be a great time to realign your schedule and get back on track to meet your fitness goals. Preparing meals for the week is just one way to keep the momentum going.
Below are three tips about the benefits of meal preparation:
- You will save money
- Adds variety to your meals
- You will learn portion control
“The best thing to keep in mind when meal prepping is to do what works best for you,” said Sarah McDonald, RD, Clinical Dietitian, Saint Agnes Healthcare. “The goal is make sure you have the convenience of grabbing healthy snacks and meals while you’re on the go during the week.”
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, Americans age 18 and over spend about 37 minutes in food preparation and cleanup.
This is time worth spent considering that lack of time is a top reason why people don’t cook at home.
Meal prepping allows busy individuals to walk through the door of their home and have a delicious dinner or lunch within a matter of minutes.
Taking the time to plan your meals in advance is an effective way to avoid purchasing fast food and other quick meals that may contribute to extra calories and weight.