When you have a hectic schedule and a busy work lifestyle, it’s easy to skip breakfast or grab a quick cereal bar rather than make yourself a breakfast smoothie. Other times, it’s easier to opt for a takeaway for supper because you have no energy to cook.
Even though you want to make healthier choices, you just simply don’t have the time.
We feel you.
This is why we have made a list of simple changes you can adapt to make your meals easier, healthier and that won’t interrupt with your work
1. Drink Water
As soon as you wake up, drink a full glass of water. Having been dehydrated all night, water will get rid of that sluggish brain fog and give you a new burst of energy to start your day.
2. Don’t skip breakfast
Whatever you do, do not skip breakfast. Breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. Having detoxed and rested overnight, your body needs a fresh dose of sustenance to ignite and energise for the new day. Whether its a smoothie or a weetabix- eat something. Take a look at these 5 minute breakfast ideas for quick fixes that will fit right in.
3. Stick to easy recipes
Stick to 3 ingredient meals for easy recipes. The trick is to portion out protein, healthy carbs and/or good fats- and bulk it up with lentils, legumes and pulses to keep you full for longer.
4. Eat lighter lunches
Eat lighter lunches. Heavy carbs at lunch will make you drowsy. Switch carbohydrate dense foods like rice, bread, potatoes to couscous, quinoa and sweet potatoes.
5. Cook in advance
Cook bulk foods in advance and refrigerate or freeze in batches. Batch meals stored in daily containers is a good solution for those on the go. Just heat it up whenever you’re hungry.
6. Use a meal planner
If you love being organised, take advantage of free downloadable meal planners.
7. Have a routine
Eat at the same time
8. Use recipe boxes
Replace takeaway foods with healthy recipe boxes.
9. Stay Hydrated
Stay hydrated. You can limit trips to the bathroom by sipping little but often. It is drinking large amounts in one go that make us go to the bathroom frequently. Small amounts regularly
10. Avoid sweetners
Avoid caffeine with sweeteners or additives.
11. Understand your body
Understand your body and recognise when it needs food. The longer you go without eating, the more lethargic you will feel. Eat smaller meals more regularly if needed to keep your energy topped up.
12. Choose quality
Choose quality produce when buying ingredients.
13. Avoid empty calories
Avoid sugar and empty calories. Stick to fruits and nuts for snacking which will fulfil cravings for longer.
14. Don’t eat too late
Don’t eat after 8pm. Your body needs time to digest and detoxify before bed.
15. Reduce the effort
Buy pre-chopped salads and veggies to save time. In the same way, portion your meats and veggies before you store, refrigerate or freeze.
The key is to make small changes and commit to them. It takes 66 days to form a new habit- so if you can master 66 days, you’re on your way to a healthier and more productive you!
As promised, here are THREE of our Chef’s special recipes for you to get something different, delicious and healthy into your meals.
Download our recipe cards, print them out and enjoy.
The Halal Fresh Team
