Stay On Track with Meal Planning
For most of us that are on this TRIP, one of the biggest decisions we make each day is what we will eat. We have lived a life of abundant choices related to food. In most of our decisions we choose food based on our mood, hunger and finances. This inevitably leads us to choosing fast foods, carb heavy foods and food amounts that are high in calories.
To avoid staying in this cycle of allowing our emotions and advertisers to influence us into bad eating choices, we must be purposeful and make a plan that we will follow. This plan must be inline with our calories to lose weight goal and is something that we will actually find satisfying. Here are some steps to follow to create a great meal plan that you can follow:
Create your plan while you are thinking clearly. Do not start writing it out while you are hungry or craving something. Do not start writing while you are in a negative mindset. Start writing this out based on your goal and what you will do.
Do not include foods in your meal planning just because they are healthy. Include foods that you know that you like and will satisfy your taste.
Include foods that have plenty of protein and fiber. These foods will keep your body satisfied longer and you are able to control the quantity needed to stay on your calorie goal.
Limit processed foods and added sugar. Typically, these foods are made by companies that purposely want you to eat it and then trigger your brain to eat more.
Include a variety of vegetables and fruits that are high in fiber. You will be feeding your body nutrients while eating foods that will naturally promote a healthy cycle.
Plan your meals before the day begins with a focus on proteins and healthy fats first. Limit the amount of carbs from breads and processed sugars.
If you are going to eat out, check out the menu before you go and decide which meal you will order to avoid the temptation and getting off track.
We have a complete list of recommended foods that will help you create meal plans. Become a Member and get access to our Membership Pantry area that has this complete list plus it is stocked with additional content created by subject matter experts.
