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Quick Breakfast Recipes Featuring Moringa Powder
A healthy breakfast can do wonders for setting the tone of your day, providing energy, and supporting overall wellness. But what if your morning meal could be even more powerful? Introducing moringa powder, one of nature’s most nutrient-dense superfoods. Known as the "Miracle Tree," moringa has long been revered for its wealth of health benefits, ranging from its ability to boost energy and support the immune system to its potent anti-inflammatory properties. It’s rich in essential vitamins like A, C, and E, as well as minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, making it a natural powerhouse.
When incorporated into breakfast, Pura Vida Moringa Powder can help elevate the nutritional profile of any meal. Whether you mix it into smoothies, sprinkle it over your oats, or even use it in baked goods, moringa is easy to include in a variety of breakfast options. Not only does it add a vibrant green color to your dish, but it also helps to kickstart your metabolism, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day. In this blog, we will explore several quick and easy breakfast recipes featuring Pura Vida’s Moringa Powder, alongside other Pura Vida products like Moringa Capsules and Moringa Oil, to help you start your mornings feeling your best. Let’s dive in!
Why Moringa Powder is Perfect for Breakfast
There’s a reason moringa powder has become such a sought-after superfood, and when it comes to breakfast, it’s a perfect match. Moringa powder from Pura Vida is loaded with an impressive array of nutrients that provide sustained energy and a variety of other health benefits, making it the ideal choice to kickstart your day. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, moringa is a great source of antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress. It also contains calcium, potassium, and iron—minerals that support strong bones, muscle function, and oxygen transport throughout the body.
One of the biggest advantages of including moringa powder in your morning meals is its ability to stabilize blood sugar levels. This can help prevent those mid-morning crashes that many of us experience after a sugary breakfast. Moreover, moringa is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer, helping to control cravings. It’s also incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into many breakfast dishes. With just a small amount of Pura Vida Moringa Powder, you can enhance your breakfast with all these amazing benefits, giving you the perfect boost for a busy day ahead.
How to Incorporate Moringa Powder into Your Morning Routine
Integrating Pura Vida Moringa Powder into your daily breakfast routine is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. For many people, starting with a small serving of moringa is the best approach. A half-teaspoon to one teaspoon is typically a good starting point, especially if you’re new to the taste or the benefits of moringa. The flavor of moringa powder is earthy and slightly bitter, which means it can blend seamlessly into smoothies, oatmeal, or even savory dishes without overpowering the other ingredients.
For those who prefer a smoothie to kick off their day, adding a teaspoon of Pura Vida Moringa Powder to a blend of fruit, yogurt, and almond milk can create a deliciously energizing drink. You can also stir it into your morning cup of tea or coffee, or use it as a natural boost in baked goods like muffins and pancakes. In addition to Moringa Powder, consider trying Pura Vida Moringa Capsules or Moringa Drops for an extra health boost. Moringa oil is also a fantastic option to use in cooking or as a topping for salads or avocado toast. No matter how you choose to incorporate it, moringa is a quick and simple way to nourish your body and support overall wellness.
Moringa Smoothie Bowl
A smoothie bowl is the perfect canvas for a colorful, nutrient-packed breakfast, and when you add Pura Vida Moringa Powder, it becomes even more of a powerhouse meal. The beauty of smoothie bowls lies in their versatility. You can combine any number of fruits, nuts, and seeds to create a bowl that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with the nutrients your body craves after a restful night’s sleep. Adding moringa powder to a smoothie bowl gives it a vibrant green color, but more importantly, it boosts the nutritional value, adding an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to your first meal of the day.
A classic smoothie bowl could start with a base of Greek yogurt or non-dairy alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt. Blend the yogurt with frozen fruits like bananas, berries, or mango, and then add a teaspoon of Pura Vida Moringa Powder. You’ll want to blend the ingredients until smooth, then pour them into a bowl. From here, you can get creative—top your smoothie bowl with chia seeds, granola, sliced fruit, or a drizzle of honey. This quick breakfast option is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, keeping you full and energized throughout the morning.
Moringa Oatmeal Recipe
Oatmeal is one of the most popular and comforting breakfast options, and it becomes even better when you add Pura Vida Moringa Powder. Oats themselves are a great source of fiber and whole grains, which help keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day. By adding moringa powder, you’ll also be introducing a wealth of nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, potassium, and iron—minerals that are essential for healthy bones, skin, and muscle function. Plus, the antioxidants in moringa help fight inflammation and support your immune system, making it the perfect ingredient to include in your morning meal.
To make this simple yet nutrient-dense breakfast, you’ll need rolled oats, almond milk or your choice of milk, and a teaspoon of Pura Vida Moringa Powder. Start by simmering the oats in your milk, then once cooked, stir in the moringa powder and any additional toppings, such as sliced bananas, berries, or nuts for extra texture. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s customizable—add your favorite fruits, spices like cinnamon, or a drizzle of maple syrup to make it as sweet or savory as you like. A warm bowl of moringa-infused oatmeal is the perfect way to start the day feeling nourished and ready to take on whatever comes your way.
Moringa Energy Muffins
Muffins are a favorite breakfast option for many, offering the convenience of a grab-and-go meal that’s both tasty and satisfying. By incorporating Pura Vida Moringa Powder, you can transform traditional muffins into a nutrient-dense treat that supports your energy levels and overall wellness. Moringa adds a unique earthy flavor to the muffins while packing in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee or as a snack later in the day, these Moringa Energy Muffins will leave you feeling fueled and nourished.
To make these muffins, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, and Pura Vida Moringa Powder in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, honey, melted coconut oil, and almond milk to create the wet ingredients. The beauty of these muffins is that they’re both nutritious and flexible—you can swap out the nuts for seeds like sunflower or pumpkin, or even add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of flavor. Once baked, these muffins will stay fresh for several days, making them perfect for meal prepping ahead of time. A batch of these Moringa Energy Muffins can provide a quick, healthy breakfast to keep you feeling energized throughout the day. These are not only perfect for busy mornings but also a great snack option when you need a quick burst of energy between meals.
Moringa Pancakes
Pancakes are a classic breakfast food, and with a few simple tweaks, you can make them even more nutritious and exciting. Adding Pura Vida Moringa Powder to your pancake batter is an easy way to enhance the nutrient profile of this beloved dish. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple, delicious, and filled with wholesome ingredients. By swapping out regular flour for whole grain or adding in a teaspoon of moringa powder, you’re providing your body with essential vitamins and minerals that will give you a natural energy boost.
Start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, and Pura Vida Moringa Powder—in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients, including egg, almond milk, and olive oil. Once the two mixtures are combined, pour the batter into a hot, lightly greased skillet, cooking the pancakes until golden brown on each side. Top your pancakes with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor. The combination of moringa’s nutritional benefits and the comforting taste of pancakes will not only fill you up but also support your overall health. These pancakes are the perfect way to enjoy the benefits of moringa while indulging in a breakfast favorite.
Moringa Chia Pudding
Chia pudding is a trendy, no-cook breakfast that requires minimal effort while offering a nutritious and filling option for your mornings. With the addition of Pura Vida Moringa Powder, this pudding becomes even more of a powerhouse, delivering essential nutrients and antioxidants in a quick, easy-to-prepare meal. Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, and when combined with moringa powder, they create a dynamic breakfast that keeps you full and energized for hours.
To prepare this simple chia pudding, mix chia seeds, almond milk, Pura Vida Moringa Powder, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in a jar or bowl. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid overnight, creating a creamy, pudding-like consistency by morning. In the morning, simply give the pudding a stir and top it with your favorite fruit, granola, or nuts for extra crunch. This recipe can be prepped the night before, making it an excellent option for busy mornings when you need a quick breakfast. Whether you prefer a tropical version with coconut and pineapple or a berry-packed version with strawberries and blueberries, this chia pudding provides a delicious, nutrient-rich start to your day.
Moringa Avocado Toast
Avocado toast has become a breakfast staple in many households due to its ease of preparation and health benefits. By adding Pura Vida Moringa Powder to your avocado spread, you can make this already nutritious meal even better. Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, while moringa powder adds an extra boost of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Together, they create a balanced breakfast that supports your heart, digestion, and immune system, keeping you full and satisfied throughout the morning.
Start by toasting a slice of whole-grain bread to your desired crispness. While the bread is toasting, mash a ripe avocado and stir in Pura Vida Moringa Powder, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mixture over the warm toast and enjoy! You can also customize your avocado toast by adding toppings like sliced tomatoes, poached eggs, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added kick. This simple yet flavorful breakfast is a great way to incorporate moringa into your morning routine while enjoying a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of nutrients.
Moringa Breakfast Smoothie
For those who need a fast and portable breakfast, a smoothie is the perfect solution. By adding Pura Vida Moringa Powder to your morning smoothie, you’re supercharging your drink with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your overall health. This smoothie is a great option for anyone who’s always on the go or prefers a refreshing start to the day. The best part is that you can customize your smoothie to suit your taste, whether you like it sweet or savory.
To make this energizing smoothie, blend together spinach, banana, frozen berries, and a teaspoon of Pura Vida Moringa Powder. Add almond milk or any milk of your choice to achieve your desired consistency. If you like your smoothie a bit sweeter, you can add honey, maple syrup, or a few dates. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easily adaptable—you can swap the fruits based on your preferences or the season, and you can even add protein powder or flax seeds for an extra nutritional boost. This quick smoothie is perfect for busy mornings, providing you with everything you need to start the day strong.
Moringa Yogurt Parfait
Yogurt parfaits are a quick and customizable breakfast option that’s both delicious and nourishing. By incorporating Pura Vida Moringa Powder, you’re adding an extra layer of nutrition to this classic dish. Greek yogurt, which is rich in protein and probiotics, provides the perfect base for a parfait, while moringa powder boosts the nutritional value by adding vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. With endless possibilities for toppings, you can make this parfait as simple or as decadent as you like.
Start by mixing Pura Vida Moringa Powder into a cup of Greek yogurt. The moringa powder will give the yogurt a subtle earthy flavor while enhancing its nutritional profile. Then, layer the yogurt with your favorite fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi, and add granola, nuts, or seeds for crunch. You can also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top for a touch of sweetness. This parfait is not only packed with protein and healthy fats but also provides a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants from the moringa. It’s a great way to start your day with a balanced, nutrient-dense breakfast.
Conclusion: Start Your Day with the Power of Moringa
Incorporating Pura Vida Moringa Powder into your morning meals is an easy and effective way to give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive throughout the day. Whether you prefer a smoothie bowl, oatmeal, pancakes, or avocado toast, moringa can enhance any breakfast recipe with its powerful health benefits. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in moringa help support your immune system, boost energy, improve digestion, and promote overall wellness.
Don’t forget that Pura Vida offers a wide range of other moringa products, including Moringa Capsules, Moringa Powder, Moringa Drops, Moringa Oil, and Moringa Body Butter, all designed to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to add moringa to your meals, supplement your diet, or treat your skin to the nourishing benefits of moringa, Pura Vida has you covered. Start your day with the power of moringa, and enjoy the many benefits of this incredible superfood throughout your day.
#moringa breakfast recipes#quick healthy breakfasts#easy moringa recipes#moringa smoothie ideas#moringa oatmeal#high-protein breakfast recipes#healthy morning meals#plant-based breakfast ideas#moringa-infused recipes#nutritious breakfast ideas#energy-boosting breakfasts#superfood breakfast recipes#moringa in baking#quick vegan breakfast recipes#gluten-free moringa dishes.
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Best North Indian Breakfast for Diabetes
This article is originally published on Freedom from Diabetes website, available here. North Indian Include various regions like, Haryana, Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradehs and Uttar Pradesh. These regions has collection of recipes. From these recipe we have special collection of diabetic friendly recipes. So diabetic peoples can eat with without worry.
Dahi vada: This is the popular food item from the north india. It consists of fried lentil dumplings that are dunked in yogurt. This is then garnished with coriander and spicy tamarind chutney. This FFD style Dahi Vada recipe, as we use vegan curd in it. The tamarind chutney is made using dates and not sugar. We have not use sugar here.
Rajma Tikki This is a beautiful North Indian Breakfast recipe. These tikkis are prepared from kidney beans (rajma), boiled potatoes, crushed bread, and spices. FFD style rajma Tikki includes useful seeds like Magaz and almond milk both of which are a good addition. Cutting the potatoes from it reduces the carb content too.
Galauti Kebab This kebab originated in Lucknowi Nawab's kitchen. Galauti means 'the thing that melts in the mouth". They are prepared from minced mutton a non-vegetarian dish. But here we are going to prepare a completely vegan dish made up of black chickpeas.
Besan Chilla This is a popular pancake from North India that is prepared and made from Bengal gram flour. It is not only healthy and tasty but simple to prepare.
Stuffed Puri Puri can also be called an Indian flatbread that is paired with different types of curries. It can be made by stuffing it too. Stuffed puri is a great breakfast option. FFD suggests the usage of emmer wheat flour to make it more healthy. We also suggest shallow frying to reduce the oil content.
These breakfast item's recipes are here, please go through this Link. Healthy Eating, Happy Living! Also please connect with me on my website, Facebook page, and YouTube if you want to stay in touch or give me any feedback!
#North indian breakfast#North indian breakfast for diabetes#diabetic friendly North Indian breakfast#Healthy breakfast recipes#Nutritious breakfast ideas#Easy healthy breakfast#Healthy morning meals#Best healthy breakfast options#Delicious healthy breakfast#Breakfast for happy living
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breakfast was her favorite meal.
#it girl#that girl#that girl aesthetic#that girl moodboard#that girl morning#wellness girl#beauty and wellness#wellness blog#wellness#health and wellness#healthy eating#healthy living#healthy meals#healthy lifestyle#healthy food#healthylifestyle
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Overnight Protein Oatbran 🥣
✨Fit Girl Breakfast✨
#fitforestfairy#fitblr#meal prep#easy breakfast#meal inspo#overnight oatbran#protein powder#high fiber#high protein#raw cocoa powder#almond milk#vegan breakfast#calorie deficit#nutrient dense#mealspo#becoming that girl#fit girl breakfast#that girl morning#fitness journey#weight loss journey#wellness#healthy food
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#i went grocery shopping last night and i got a bunch of stuff bc no taxes and my bf gets a discount at the store lol#and i got healthy things! yay me#excited to have some fruits and yogurt this morning instead of. nothing lmao#gonna try to meal prep and plan with all the stuff i got im kind of excited#have to unfortunately clean my kitchen first to have room to do it lol rip#bf kept saying he was gonna do it bc he has like 2 weeks off but he has done fuck all#r we surprised? no#life with shannon
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I should really go to sleep 😭
#I grow hungry in the dread of night I can not feast until morning#(that is the sound of a woman that ate the same meal meant for a 5yo. not a 14yo child. for both diner and 2PM)#anyways i'm very healthy#also besides from sleeping I should learn how to cook something better than a dry sandwich 💀💀
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#morning meal#healthy breakfast#morning breakfast#healthy eating#healthy food#tumblr tv#video#food#health#good eats#tortillas
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Rise and Shine: 10 Healthy Breakfast Ideas to Start Your Day Right
Introduction: Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. A nutritious breakfast not only provides you with the energy you need to kickstart your day but also sets the tone for healthy eating habits. However, finding the time and inspiration to prepare a healthy breakfast can be a challenge amidst busy morning routines. Fear not! In this article, we'll explore 10 delicious and nutritious breakfast ideas that are quick, easy, and perfect for fueling your day ahead.
Overnight Oats: Overnight oats are a time-saving breakfast option that can be prepared the night before. Simply combine rolled oats with your choice of milk (dairy or plant-based), add toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, your oats will be soft, creamy, and ready to enjoy.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, making it an excellent choice for a healthy breakfast. Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey for a delicious and satisfying parfait. You can also add additional toppings like sliced almonds, coconut flakes, or chia seeds for extra flavor and texture.
Avocado Toast: Avocado toast has become a popular breakfast staple for good reason – it's simple, nutritious, and incredibly delicious. Mash ripe avocado onto whole grain toast and top with sliced tomatoes, a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. For added protein, top with a poached or fried egg.
Veggie Omelette: Eggs are a nutritional powerhouse and a versatile ingredient for breakfast. Whip up a veggie-packed omelette by sautéing your favorite vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, then pour beaten eggs over the top. Cook until set, fold in half, and serve with a side of whole grain toast for a filling and satisfying breakfast.
Smoothie Bowl: Smoothie bowls are a refreshing and nutritious breakfast option that allows for endless creativity. Blend together your favorite fruits, leafy greens, and a liquid base such as almond milk or coconut water until smooth. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with granola, sliced fruit, nuts, seeds, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
Chia Seed Pudding: Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them an excellent addition to your breakfast routine. Make chia seed pudding by combining chia seeds with your choice of milk and sweetener (such as honey or maple syrup) in a jar or bowl. Stir well, refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight until thickened, and top with fresh fruit or nuts before serving.
Whole Grain Pancakes: Swap traditional pancakes for whole grain pancakes made with whole wheat flour or oat flour for a healthier twist. Serve with sliced bananas, berries, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a delicious and nutritious breakfast that's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Quinoa Breakfast Bowl: Quinoa is a protein-rich grain that makes a nutritious base for a breakfast bowl. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and top with sliced fruit, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a hearty and satisfying morning meal.
Breakfast Burrito: Wrap scrambled eggs, black beans, diced vegetables, and a sprinkle of cheese in a whole grain tortilla for a portable and protein-packed breakfast on the go. Add salsa, avocado, or Greek yogurt for extra flavor and creaminess.
Cottage Cheese and Fruit: Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium, making it a nutritious breakfast option. Serve cottage cheese with fresh fruit such as berries, sliced peaches, or pineapple for a simple and satisfying breakfast that's ready in minutes.
Conclusion: With these 10 healthy breakfast ideas, you can start your day off on the right foot and fuel your body with essential nutrients and delicious flavors. Whether you prefer a refreshing smoothie bowl, a hearty omelette, or a simple bowl of overnight oats, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So make breakfast a priority and reap the benefits of a nutritious start to your day.
#Healthy Eating#Breakfast Recipes#Nutritious Meals#Morning Fuel#Balanced Diet#Quick Breakfast#Easy Recipes#Breakfast Inspiration#Delicious Start#Wholesome Breakfast#Breakfast Ideas#Clean Eating#Energizing Meals#Breakfast Bowl#Protein-Packed Breakfast
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i'm eating an apple for the first time in forever and i can feel my body physically thanking me
#i've been eating soooo bad i've been eating like a meal and a half per day#and it's mostly not super good stuff except for like. the granola bar i eat in the morning#that's relatively healthy i think#i have gotta start eating better though it's fucking me up big time#darryl speaks
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10/25/23
I got up and started work at 5:40 & it has been a bit boring. They cancelled OT on us for next week.
Yay for time for 😭 for money.
I am also pretty apathetic at work today.
Who gives a shit? Really? If they cared it would be fixed by now.
So I am on my lunch break. We have an impending blizzard.
I have 2 OT hours left this week. Struggling with the idea of doing them today or shelving them for later.
I have been slowly getting other tasks done this week. Clothes getting put away. Mostly small tasks but things I have obviously been struggling to complete.
I feel like I need to take some time to do stuff outside but what would I even do??
It is dark & dreary.
I am supposed to have a weigh in tomorrow but I have had a couple bad days so I don't know if that is a good idea. Mentally you know. My last weight in was.... low. And I am a little worried if it isn't low again I will lose focus.
I was not ready for a nap when lunch began, BUT I am ready for one now. It has almost been an hour, so I had better not.
I have listened to some music and some David Goggins videos.
Only an hour and a half left if I don't do OT today.
#healthy lifestyle#getting healthy#losing weight#healthy eating#fitblr#healthy habits#operation lose this gut#weight loss#operationlosethisgut#weight loss journey#road to 199#food log#healthy food#food logs#active fitblr#active blog#meal tracking#how I am feeling#morning thoughts#thoughts#delicious coffee#breakfast#getting sleepy#getting active#getting shit done#getting it done#getting real#getting thinner#doing the work#focus on your goals
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i luv doing what i call "passive breakfast" which is rather than having something that i have to eat in one sitting, finding smth that i can just snack on and pick at for the first 3-4 hours of me being awake
#99.txt#becoming an adult means getting excited about shit like this#i really dont get hungry in the morning tho so its nice to not make myself feel sick by trying to eat a whole meal.#but also i dont have to run on empty this way#i realised after moving in with maddi that i really dont eat a lot at all......#just since im fat ive been convinced my whole life that i must be eating way too much....#the way my metabolism works is it wants a lot of snacks throughout the day and one main meal#i am somehow losing weight tho. not that i care much its just interesting#i think because im in england now stuff is just overall more healthy....#its hard to find real sugar soda & even when it is.. the ammt of sugar is less than america it seems like#america will add sugar to the damnedest things#maddi says i have to put it back on so i dont disappear 💀💀#also yeah with metabolism. everyone thinks fast metabolism is like. the only way to be. and if u dont have that its bad....#and i really disagree#i think its just apples and oranges. whichever way you work just figure out how to accommodate for it and then its fine
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#breakfast#soft#morning#coffee#brekkie#first meal#tea#healthy#self care#fruit#eggs#toast#peace#little moments
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I’m getting things ready to do a bit of meal prep for today and tomorrow.
But first, coffee ☕️ and planning while listening to some LoFi music 🎶 and then pilates ✨
#fitforestfairy#fitblr#healthy girl morning#healthy girl era#fit girl era#strong september#meal prep#meal planning#tracking#coffee#black coffee#pink yoga mat#pink pilates princess#fitness journey#weight loss journey
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#morning#food#lifestyle#porridge#tasty#berries#lingonberry#healthy#home#iphoneshot#myshot#niceshot#moment#inspo#breakfast#delicious#cooking#meal#personal#cozy#life#butter#aesthetic#picture
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Meal Prepping 101
Taking maximum credit loads, commuting, and working a part-time job can make eating a balanced diet seem impossible.
I mean, how many more responsibilities do you need?
But that’s the thing - eating a nutritious diet is the foundation to your success. It can give you the energy to study for exams and stay awake during three-hour seminars. And it may even grant you better grades.
Also, eating a balanced diet may improve your immune system, which results in fewer absences.
Yes, you’re not the only one snoozing in three-hour seminars.
One way to guarantee that you’re eating nutrient-dense and filling meals is to practice meal prepping. Meal prepping is cooking multiple servings of a meal in a single day. For instance, you can make your lunches for Monday through Friday by cooking in bulk on Sunday. All you have to do is pop it in Tupperware and grab it before you go out the door.
Click here to see some examples of lunches that are easy to meal prep.
For most college students, this can seem like a daunting task.
“Where will I find the time to grocery shop?”
“What should I cook?”
“HOW do I cook?”
I’m here to reassure you that meal prepping is not as hard as it seems. Throughout my college career, I've been a commuter student who has taken maximum credit loads for every semester.
Meal prepping was the secret to staying organized and making the little time I had count.
There’s nothing like the reassurance of having your lunch ready and prepped next to you at all times. And- you’re in full control of what you are eating because we all know how easy stress eating is. Not to mention how hard it is to stop grabbing for the nearest salty snack.
If you’re unsure of how to begin meal prepping, let’s dive into how you can take care of your body by preparing your meals for the week!
Basic Nutrition
The first step to meal prepping is deciding what you want to eat. I’m not a certified nutritionist, but I do have experience in eating for body function and performance since I am an athlete. These meal plans tend to be nutrient-dense and focused on eating whole foods.
What do I mean by whole foods? These are foods that usually don’t have a gigantic ingredient list listed on their packages. These include fruits, veggies, meat, beans, grains, and eggs.
For example, I made sure to eat foods that would give me sustainable energy for my last Jiu-Jitsu tournament. My breakfast for the day was a sautee of quinoa, scrambled egg whites, and black beans. The combination of protein and carbohydrates kept me fueled through each of my fights.
Here’s the number #1 tip you should follow when grocery shopping: stick to the perimeter of the store. While following the perimeter of the store, you’ll find your veggies and fruits, the deli section and dairy.
But this is not to say that you won’t go down any aisles. There are a few “whole foods” scattered throughout the middle of the store such as beans and rice.
The most important part of your meal plan and diet is BALANCE. Sure, you want to stick to whole foods mainly, but there’s nothing wrong with having Cheez-It’s as a snack every once in a while. Here’s a helpful grocery list you can follow if you want to meal prep your lunches:
- 2 types of fruits you enjoy
- 2 vegetables you enjoy
- Chicken (or tofu if you don’t eat meat)
- Brown rice
- Black beans
- Yogurt (dairy or non-dairy, try to pick one with less added sugars)
- Almonds (omit if you’re allergic to nuts)
- Honey (substitute maple syrup)
- Dark chocolate
- 1 type of cracker/treat that you enjoy such as Doritos
Make sure to multiply this list based on how many days you’ll want lunch. Your meal prep can last however many days you want it to, but I usually cap it at five days. Here’s the meal you’re going to make:
- Brown rice bowl with chicken/tofu, beans, and veggies
- Side of yogurt parfait (yogurt, fruit, almonds, honey)
- Side of dark chocolate
- 1 treat *alternate every other day*
This list is just for lunches, but you can prep any meal of your choice. If you want to meal prep your breakfast, add these items to your list:
- Large eggs (white or brown)
- Egg whites
- Loaf of bread (whichever kind you prefer)
- Any spread you put on toast
There’s your breakfast! You can make 2 eggs + extra egg whites for added protein with toast.
And if you’re interested in meal prepping your whole day, all you have to do is choose a different dish than your lunch for dinner. Since every student has a different living situation, I’ll leave this up to you to decide.
It’s important that when you go grocery shopping for your meal prep, you pick up any other items that you need such as laundry detergent or bottled water. This will save you time and stress throughout the week since your time is limited between classes to run to the store.
Budget
It’s easy to say what you need to get at the grocery store, but I know that not every student has adequate funds to purchase my entire grocery list. This doesn’t mean that you can't meal prep.
You can easily modify any grocery list to fit your needs. For instance, instead of getting two types of vegetables and fruit, you can only get one type of each. Or if raw chicken is too expensive, scour the frozen aisles for pre-cooked chicken tenders. They may not be the healthiest option, but they might be your only option at the moment.
If you’re a student that works a part-time job, meal prepping will save you more money than you’d expect. Instead of picking up random fast food meals throughout the week or spending $20 for a coffee and a treat at Starbucks, your only large purchase for the week should be your groceries.
For each paycheck, set aside $30-70 for your meal prepping. The more days you meal prep, the more you will spend. It’ll seem like a large amount at first glance, but $70 spread out over 5 days is $14 for multiple meal and snacks.
How to Meal Prep
After following your budget and gathering your groceries, it’s time to start meal prepping. Let’s grab our Tupperware and get to work!
The whole concept of meal prepping is cooking your meals in one session. Most people like to meal prep on Sunday since that’s when they have the least amount of plans. Choose a day where you know you’ll have at least 2 hours free to cook.
Here are a few tips to follow when preparing your meals:
- Empty the dishwasher and sink before you start
- Have multiple foods cooking at once (chicken on the stove, veggies in the oven, etc.)
- Always start with the food that takes the longest to cook (rice can take up to 45 minutes)
- Make sure to eat and get yourself in a good mood before cooking
- Clean as you go
With these tips, your meal-prepping session should go smoothly. Meal prepping is something that takes time to truly perform well. The more you do it, the better it gets.
It also may help to try meal prepping with a friend or roommate so that you can delegate and split tasks.
Don’t be discouraged if your first meals are poorly seasoned or cooked through. The only way to improve is to practice and stay consistent.
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