Are you looking to improve your heart health and lower your blood pressure? The DASH diet may be just what you need. This eating plan, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, emphasizes whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy while limiting sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars. But with busy schedules and limited time, sticking to a healthy eating plan can be tough. That’s where meal prep comes in!
Here are some tips and tricks for meal prepping on the DASH diet:
1. Plan Ahead: Take some time to plan out your meals for the week. Look for recipes that fit the DASH guidelines and make a grocery list of everything you’ll need. This will save you time and money in the long run.
2. Batch Cook: Instead of cooking a meal every night, try batch cooking on the weekends. Make a big pot of soup or chili that can be portioned out for the week. Roast a sheet pan of veggies or grill some chicken that can be used in salads and sandwiches throughout the week.
3. Use Mason Jars: Mason jars are a great way to prep salads and snacks for the week. Layer your ingredients in the jar, starting with the dressing on the bottom, followed by the protein, veggies, and grains. Shake it up when you’re ready to eat, and you have a healthy meal on the go!
4. Invest in Containers: Invest in some good-quality containers that are microwave and dishwasher safe. This will make it easy to pack your meals and snacks and take them with you wherever you go.
5. Prep in Batches: If you don’t have time to cook all your meals at once, try prepping in batches. Cut up veggies and fruit for snacks, portion out nuts and seeds, or make a big batch of quinoa or rice that can be used throughout the week.
6. Don’t Forget the Snacks: Snacking is an important part of any healthy eating plan. Prep snacks like sliced veggies and hummus, hard-boiled eggs, or Greek yogurt with berries to keep you satisfied between meals.
7. Keep it Simple: Meal prep doesn’t have to be complicated. Stick to simple recipes that can be easily adapted to fit the DASH guidelines. Don’t be afraid to use shortcuts like pre-chopped veggies or frozen fruits and veggies to save time.
By following these meal prep tips and tricks, you’ll be able to stick to the DASH diet and improve your heart health without sacrificing flavor or convenience. Happy prepping!
