By Everyone is different, so something can be highly effective for one person, and totally inefficient to another. For me, one thing that’s always helped me stick with my health and fitness goals is meal prepping! This means packing up enough meals for the next few days, up to a week. I’m always on the go and I don’t really have enough time to pack my lunch everyday, so meal prepping helps me save money and stay away from fast food! This is also especially helpful during Ramadan, when we want to make the most of our time.
Meal prepping is easy, convenient, and did I already mention it’s cheap? If I don’t meal prep my meals for the week, I might find myself spending $30-$50 each week! (Yeah, I know right!?) That’s a lot of money going to waste when I could be using it for other more useful things. Meal prepping is definitely something to consider when you’re on a budget.
I like to have a well balanced meal of protein, starch, and veggies.
I usually go for beans for my proteins. They’re both easy to cook and inexpensive. One can of garbanzo beans usually costs about $1.00, and with that one can, you can make two meals for one day–or if you buy two, you can make four meals for two days. I love eating beans because they’re very high in protein, and they’re very filling because of their high nutritional value. Some people try not to add rice to their diet, but I can’t live without mine! Carbs are essential to your diet, but that’s another topic for a another day.
Okay, so I know what you’re thinking–get to the point, how do I start meal prepping!? Well, don’t you worry, I’ve got you covered! I’m gonna give you a few tips. Let’s get started!
Tip #1: Save Money.
Try using beans for your protein. They’re not as costly as meat, and they’re very low in fat, but high in fiber.
Tip #2: Save Time.
Try saving time by picking one day of the week when you meal prep. I like to use Sunday as my meal prepping day, and usually I like to take off so I can go food shopping too!
Tip #3: Save More Money.
Try investing in a BJ’s, Sam’s Club, or Costco membership. It’ll allow you to buy products and produce in bulk so that way you get more for your money, and you don’t have to shop as often. Visit farmer’s markets, or buy produce locally.
Tip #4: Make A Plan.
Create a list of healthy foods that can be cooked in less than 10 minutes! You can even create a plan and meal ideas for the whole month; it’ll help save on stress and time.
Tip #5: Keep It Simple.
Keep your meals simple, girl! Simple doesn’t mean boring, either. Try buying a few different spices so you can spice your meals! Again, you can always buy larger amounts if you decide to get a membership at a wholesale club.