There are a variety of decisions you make on a daily basis that can influence your journey with weight and health. From your workout routine to your workplace behaviors, the different spheres that you occupy in life have a significant impact on your physical, emotional and mental health. And, to no surprise, the same can be said for your very own home — especially when it comes to what you’re stocking your kitchen with!
Some of our biggest nutrition habits are formed right in our kitchen. The foods we purchase, prepare, cook and pack for future meals collectively set the stage for the eating habits and patterns we form. As a result, it’s crucial that we stock our kitchen with the foods and products which will ultimately benefit our journey with weight and health. Below, we offer a few key tips for preparing your kitchen to set YOU up for success!
Stock Your Kitchen with these Key Tips
To equip yourself with healthy nutrition habits, it’s important for the items you stock in your kitchen to inspire you, give you focus and keep you on track. Consider the following tips for laying the groundwork for healthy eating!
Load Up on Your Favorite Spices/Seasonings – You can avoid the all too common “food rut” by keeping your pantry filled with a variety of spices and seasonings. These “extras” can put a new spin on your favorite healthy foods each time you repeat a meal or snack! It’s a great way to defeat boredom.- Keep a Bountiful Amount of Produce – Fruits and vegetables are typically low in calories but rich with vitamins, minerals and fiber. You can add them in to almost any meal and boost your nutrition content by far!
Have Protein on Hand – Healthy sources of protein such as eggs, lean meats and Greek yogurt are excellent for not only building and maintaining muscle, but for keeping you full and satiated throughout the day. That way, you’re less likely to snack on things that add up in calories. For more information about how protein is beneficial to your weight and health goals, CLICK HERE.- Choose Your Drinks Wisely – Drinks are often a hidden source of calories, typically because of high sugar and alcohol content. If you’re serious about cutting down your calorie intake, opt to keep your kitchen filled with water, flavor enhancers, healthy meal replacement drinks, etc.
Have Healthy Oils to Cook with – Healthy oils such as extra-virgin olive oil, avocado oil and coconut oil are rich in “good” fats — as long as you don’t go overboard with them. Use these oils for baking, cooking and drizzling!- Stock Up on Nutritious Staples – Having staples in your kitchen will come in handy when you want to prepare food but have little time for shopping. Whole grains, quinoa, oatmeal and some of your favorite (and most used) healthy ingredients, for example, are a great way to keep up with your nutrition goals and save time!
With a kitchen that is stocked full of healthy and nutritious foods, you may notice that it becomes easier to stay focused and to develop lasting habits that will carry with you beyond the reach of your goals! Nutrition starts right in YOUR kitchen, so choose wisely!
