Meal Prepping: The Ultimate Time Saver for Healthier Eating?

So many people talk about wanting to do more meal prepping – but it isn’t for everyone. Some people thrive on this approach to making meals, while others don’t always want to spend the hours once a week to do this.

First, meal prepping is for people who WANT to make their meals at home. If people aren’t interested in cooking and preparing their food, this is not the approach for them.

However, if you want to and can make meals at home, this is ONE approach to save time theoretically. However, it is an investment in time on one day (for many people, Sunday), so save time cooking during the week.

So, if you prefer not to spend time daily making your meals, then meal prepping is for you.

No More Impromptu Trips to the Grocery Store?

The meal-prepping approach “forces” you to have all your food supplies for the whole week - theoretically minimizing trips to the grocery store. Now, if you can plan this ahead of time, whether you’re a meal prepper or just a meal planner, you may not be going to the grocery store more than once a week anyway. Either way – whether you are a meal PLANNER or meal PREPER, you need some organization.

Cook Once, Eat All Week

So many people come home (or out of their home office) after a long day, hungry and too tired to even think about cooking. If you do meal prepping, your pre-prepped meals only need reheating and ready-to-eat. With meal prepping, you cook larger batches of your favorite dishes in advance and portion them out for the entire week. That means no more daily cooking, less takeout, and less of the “What is for dinner tonight?” panic. However, remember that this indicates some repetitive dishes during the week.

Time Management

People who are fans of meal prepping know they should dedicate a few hours each week (ideally in one block) to prep meals. This investment saves time during hectic weekdays – especially after a busy day of work and running around. No more worrying about whether you defrosted the protein or do you have a vegetable with that. Meals are portioned and ready for the week, so you have extra time for a workout! Or to catch up on the latest binge-worthy show.

Minimize waste, freeze ahead, and save time.

Customize Your Meals and Minimize Waste

Meal prepping is all about customizing your meals to suit your nutritional needs. Whether following a specific diet plan or wanting to eat healthier, prepping your meals allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes. And, with everything portioned out and stored correctly, you can minimize food waste and cut down on your grocery bill. Good for you and the environment.

Embrace Frozen Food

Have five portions, but don’t want those every day this week? Freeze them! When meal prepping, don’t be afraid to utilize your freezer. Certain dishes freeze exceptionally well and can reheat quickly, allowing you to prepare meals weeks or even months in advance. So, when you are not in the mood for a meal-prepping afternoon or an unexpected schedule conflict, you have a stash of homemade frozen meals ready. Just don’t forget to label and date those containers and use them within 4-6 months.

Remember, the key to success lies in planning, organizing, and embracing the power of your freezer and being ready to invest some time at the beginning of the week.

What about you? Are you into meal prepping? Or want to try it? Do you find it helps you save time and makes things easier?

Want more information and help with meal prepping and meal planning? Consider enrolling in the mini-course: 6 Tips for the Busy Person to Have Sustainable Energy: All-Day Energy Through Food AND Companion Workbook. Learn more.