I hope everybody had the best summer ever! Now that the long sun-drenched days and calorie-indulgent nights are behind us, the kids are back to school, and the workweeks are settling into their normal routine, it’s time to focus on healthy eating and sustainable habits.
To keep it simple, all we have to do is....
Get Back to Basics:
Start the Day with a Balanced Breakfast
Make sure it contains protein, healthy fats, and fiber which will keep us full and energized. Great options include Greek yogurt with a handful of nuts and berries, or scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach and whole-grain toast. These choices stabilize our blood sugars and reduce mid-morning cravings.
Brown-Bag It for Lunch
Preparing our meals at home is a game-changer. It allows us to control ingredients and portion sizes, making it easier to stay on track. Opt for a nutrient-dense meal like quinoa salad with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a variety of colorful vegetables. This way we avoid the hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, and extra calories that can sneak into restaurant meals, even those labeled as “healthy.”
Keep Dinner Simple and Satisfying
Focus on lean proteins like grilled salmon, chicken, or tofu, and pair them with a generous portion of vegetables and a healthy carb like sweet potatoes or brown rice. Including fiber-rich vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or leafy greens will not only help us feel full but will also support our gut health.
Consider Meal Prepping on the Weekend to Make Your Week Easier
Dedicating some time on a Sunday afternoon to meal prep really goes a long way. For me that time includes slicing and dicing some multi-colored peppers, roasting a big pan of vegetables (and yes, it's okay to use frozen!), and having a big bowl of grape tomatoes on the ready for some go-to vegetable options for during the week. The other thing I always do is boil a dozen eggs and grill up some chicken breasts. This way I have a couple of
lean proteins that can be used in a variety of ways for brown-bag lunches or assembling quick and easy dinners. Having these staples ready will make it much easier to stick to healthy eating goals without the stress of daily meal preparation.
Embrace the transition!
Saying goodbye to summer might be tough, but these simple strategies will make it so much easier and healthier. Getting back to basics lays the foundation for a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that will carry you through the rest of the year.
And remember, the holiday season is just around the corner—only 121 shopping days till Christmas. Can you tell, it's one of my favorite times of year!
I'd love to hear what some of your food preparations choices are. And remember, I'm always here to help!
Talk soon and have a great week!
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