Taking charge of your health through balanced nutrition is something many people struggle with. Prioritizing healthy eating is more important now than ever before. Making healthy food choices can have a positive impact on your heart health, mood, energy levels, weight, immune system and mental health.
But, eating well doesn’t have to be challenging, time consuming or expensive. It can be fun and even therapeutic!
As a working mom with two young kids, I follow these helpful tips to help fuel my body and mind to perform my best:
- Create a plan and stick to it
- Plan in advance to help you stick to your routine, avoid food waste and stay on budget.
- Make a detailed list based on your store’s layout to shop efficiently
- Make healthier choices easier
- Use online resources like Canada’s Food Guide to help ensure your plate is well-balanced: ¼ protein rich foods, ¼ whole grains and ½ veggies and fruits.
- Prepare healthy options that are easy to grab-and-go such as precut veggies and fruit, or hardboiled eggs.
- Don’t forget to wash and prep produce when you’re at home.
- Keep healthy snacks at a height that kids (and parents) can reach.
- Get creative
- Carve out time to enjoy meals with family and friends. This allows you to take breaks, unwind, and stay connected. Get creative with virtual dinner parties, healthy backyard picnics and active lunch breaks.
- Be kind to yourself!
- When you are stressed, in a rush, upset or bored, you might not make the healthiest food choices. Think about what you can do differently next time and move on. Doing so, helps ensure you have a healthy relationship with food.
Most importantly pay attention to what foods help you feel your best. Aim to eat well 80% of the time, this way you can enjoy treats in moderation.
Looking for extra support?
Check out free resources available in your community. If you have an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) through your workplace– you may have access to other services. You can also connect with a health professional, such as a registered dietitian – these services are often partially covered by workplace benefit plans and can be accessed virtually.
During this difficult time, visit Food Banks Canada to learn more about accessing support or how you can make a difference.
