Best Fork Forward: Cook at Home with Healthier Ingredients

Cook at home with healthier ingredients!

How often do you cook at home?

How often do you eat out? Once or twice a month? Once or twice a week? Everyday? Hmmm.

Well, did you know eating more home cooked meals may lead to better health outcomes? Yup. So how does that happen right? You’re still eating whether your at home or out right? Well, sure. But let’s face it – food tends to have more calories, fat and sugar when you eat out. When you cook at home you have all the control. You know exactly what is going into the foods you make. You also have better control over portion sizes. And guess what? Portion control is key when it comes to weight management. You’re heard it before – everything moderation. And guess what? It’s true.

Okay, so maybe you’re saying – I don’t have time to cook at home. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. I get it – meal planning can be a little overwhelming. Build on the foundation you already have. Do you cook 3 nights a week? Then try for 4. Don’t cook at all? Try cooking one meal a week. Or spruce up ready-to-eat meals or takeout with a home made component. For example, is Friday night pizza night? Balance out the meal with a big salad. 

Keep it simple. Make it fun! Experiment with healthier ingredients. Aim to try one new thing at a time – no need to go crazy! Pick something that’s new to you. Try it a few different ways over the course of a week. This gives you time to experiment and decide whether you enjoy this new ingredient. If at the end of the week, you’re not sold on it – move on to something else. No need to waste time on foods you don’t like right?

And hey – I’m not telling you to avoid dining out – that’s just not realistic (or fun!). But when you do dine out, make sure you don’t ditch your goals. Plan ahead and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Think about choosing healthier options such as things that are grilled, baked or steamed. Or think about adding healthier options to your plate – veggies, whole grains or fruit.

Remember – making small changes is just one part of becoming healthier over time. (Hmm – I think I’ve said that before). So go ahead – put your best fork forward!

What changes do you think you can make to put your best fork forward?