Eating Wisely at Home
Eating at home not only saves you money, but it really can also help you cook healthier food options, which save on calories. Here are some tips that you should keep in mind when preparing food at home:
  1. First of all, take control of your food, plan ahead for healthy snacks and meals.
  2. Use a plate or bowl and never eat out of boxes, bags, or cartons unless they are single-servings.
  3. Use smaller bowls, plates, and glasses; that way, the portions will be smaller.
  4. Eat at the table for every meal because eating in front of the TV, computer, or at your desk can cause you to overeat.
  5. Fix your plate in the kitchen, serving your meal in a buffet-style, but leaving the serving bowls in the kitchen so you aren’t tempted to eat more.
  6. Make half your plate veggies and fruits. Choose red, orange, and dark green vegetables such as tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
  7. Twice a week, make seafood the protein on your plate. Other days, you can choose beef, pork, chicken, or turkey, but be sure to check the label to make sure they are lean. Also, beans or tofu make a healthy protein choice.
  8. Avoid extra fat; often that’s found in heavy gravies or sauces.
  9. Aim to make at least half your grains whole grains. On the food label look for words like “100% whole grain” or “100% whole wheat”.
  10. For something different, try new foods. Keep meals interesting by trying foods you’ve never tried before, like lentils, or mango, or kale. You might find a new favorite.
  11. Let leftovers be leftovers. It’ll save you the time for the next day’s meal.
  12. Preparing and eating food can be enjoyable. Savor your food. Eat slowly; enjoy the taste and textures, and pay attention to how you feel. Be mindful. Eating very quickly can cause you to eat too much. Take time to relax and enjoy your food.