While we all want to find a fast fix, the best way to maintain a healthy weight is to eat wholesome, unprocessed foods.
For many, that fact is synonymous with spending more time in the kitchen, unleashing our inner Master Chef.
But this is not all the time practical. Some people are too busy to cook their own food, or the idea of cooking just is not appetizing. If you can not seem to get into the kitchen to prepare a healthy meal, are you doomed to eat fast food for life?
Of course not!
Here are some other ways to ensure you’re eating healthy foods when you haven’t got the time (or the inclination) to cook them yourself.
1. Buy Healthy Microwave Food
Some would say that the words “healthy” and “microwave” do not go together, but there are some stunningly healthy options in the freezer aisle that are ready to eat in about 4 to 5 minutes. What could be better than that?
Look for foods that are low in sodium and consist of lots of vegetables and whole grains. You can purchase delicious ethnic dishes such as Pad Thai or Mexican-style casseroles. The delicate taste and consistency of vegetables will surprise you.
Microwave meals can even help you with portion control. Drink lots of water or eat an apple if you’re still hungry after one of these filling meals.
2. Hire a Private Chef
Before you scoff at and dismiss this idea, ask yourself this: would you hire a personal trainer to help you get in shape? A chef is no different! And when your health is at stake, the investment is well worth it.
Some cooks cook food in their own kitchen and send it to you. Other people use your kitchen as a workspace. You can get fully customized delicious meals that follow any diet plan.
When hiring a private chef, you can ask a few Food handler certification or other qualifications demonstrating a track record of safe food handling. After that, price and private preference will guide you.
3. Batch Cook
Let’s say you haven’t got time to cook during the week, but you enjoy cooking healthy meals for yourself on the weekends. Take advantage of the extra weekend time for mass cooking.
This means making large batches of food that you can eat throughout the week. For example, you could make a big pot of brown rice so you all the time have a healthy snack to fill up. Another popular option is to roast half a dozen potatoes in the oven, then reheat and garnish with a wide range of toppings, from cheese to chili. They can be snacks or meals in their own right, freed from excess oil, salt, preservatives or whatever else you want to avoid.
A electrical pressure cooker is a superb tool for batch cooking, as it lets you leave the kitchen (or leave the house completely!) while food cooks safely in your absence. Beans, rice, vegetables and meat can all be perfectly cooked with just a little pre-setting.
No matter what, healthy eating is all the time within reach. It’s just a matter of making good choices. Keep the spirit to continue to do the best!
