Does the thought of choosing meals for your family stress you out? Does it feel like you don’t have enough time to cook? Are your weekly meals repetitive? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, maybe meal planning is for you! Planning your meals in advance is not all about making lists, but more about being prepared to tackle your daily menu stress-free. Our Corporate Dietitian, Jennifer Patzkowsky, MS, RDN, LDN, shares just a few of the benefits meal planning can provide.
Save Time and Money
We’re all looking for ways to save time and money, right? Meal planning is just one way to achieve that. For most, the work week flies by and meals become a last minute thought. If you’re one with a busy schedule, you are probably all too familiar with tossing together a last-minute meal — now your plate is filled with a hodge-podge of items found in your pantry. In some cases, you avoid that hassle all together and chow down on fast food. The great thing about planning is that it allows you to create meals based on your schedule. You’ll have the opportunity to build a menu based around the time you have and want to spend in the kitchen. Looking ahead will help you stay prepared when walking into the grocery store. A detailed shopping list will cut down on impulse buying, leaving you with even more money in your pockets. What’s even better is you’ll have time to check out local sales!
Prevent Waste
We’ve all experienced the unidentified container left in the fridge, and you’re not sure if it’s pork roast or broccoli soup — either way, you know it’s nothing that you want to sink your teeth into. Planning your meals will cut down on those mystery containers you’ve been collecting. If you know Wednesday night you’ll be running from soccer practice to yoga to karate, choose items that can be easily made into alternative dishes. For example, rotisserie chicken one night, enchiladas the next.
Promote Better Eating Habits
Planning helps you avoid the everyday boredom. Food items often go to waste because your taste buds are tired of the same old meals. Meal planning will give you the chance to think about menus that are well-balanced and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for one or a family of six, your body will thank you for the Better Choice meals.
Allow for Family Time
Get the whole family involved in choosing a menu. Even young kids can help pick out recipes, prep meals, or take part in the cooking. This will promote making better food decisions when they get older. Pull the entire family in to help determine the dishes. Grandpa’s favorite meal might be Italian Chicken, while your child loves Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza. Each day will bring a new blend of flavors, which everyone can be happy with!
Do you plan your meals? If so, what are some planning tips you can share with those who are just beginning?
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