When it comes to the clean eating lifestyle, the goal is to reduce processed foods, cook more often, and use as many fresh ingredients as possible. This means cooking is a little different, not just that you’re cooking from scratch, but that you’re also changing the ingredients you are using.
Cooking Requires More Planning
The first thing you need to remember is that because you are cooking more from scratch, you need to plan a little bit better. While not all meals are going to take a lot of time to prepare and cook, you may be surprised by the extra groceries, ingredients needed for meals, and the prep work. For example, instead of buying a bag of shredded cheese, you want to purchase blocks of cheese and shred it yourself. This isn’t difficult to do (especially if you have a food processor), but it does require a little extra time.
Cook Everything from Scratch if Possible
As mentioned already, most of your meals will be prepared and cooked from scratch. Even though some convenience foods aren’t as bad as far as fat and calories go, they are processed and loaded with salt. That’s not the best in the clean eating lifestyle. It is a better idea to make as much of your food from scratch if possible. There are some exceptions, like buying pre-sliced veggies from the produce section, but this sometimes adds to your grocery bill. If you’re able to do absolutely everything yourself so that you know it is fresh and you are saving money, that’s the best scenario. So, for example, you will no longer be buying pancake mix from a box (sorry, Aunt Jemima!). Instead, you will prepare the batter from better quality ingredients.
Making Meals Ahead of Time Becomes Crucial
In addition to planning, you will want to begin making some of your meals ahead of time. Last week, I gave you some tips on meal-prepping. Read that blog here if you missed it. When you live a busy lifestyle, meal planning and prepping helps you avoid picking up fast food on the way home, skipping meals, or grabbing unhealthy snacks from the vending machine. Remember to set aside time one day a week to grocery shop and meal plan.
Buying in Bulk Saves Money
If you need to save a little money on your grocery bill when switching to clean eating, buying in bulk is a great idea. There is more upfront spending, but you save money in the long run. Things like meat, rice and grains, beans, and some spices or seasonings can be purchased in larger quantities. Now that I am an empty nester, I separate them into smaller batches and freeze them so I can take advantage of the savings.
Eating clean does not have to feel like a chore. I’ll admit – it does take a little getting used to, but in the grand scheme of things – you are worth it!
To Your Health,
Patti
