You bring home the bacon, but who’s got time to fry it up? Our expert answers this reader’s question on how to make healthy meals in less time.
The opinions expressed herein are the guest’s alone and have not been reviewed by a WebMD physician. If you have a question about your health, you should consult your personal physician. This event is meant for informational purposes only.
Question: I want to lose weight, but I’m too tired to prepare food after work, and I don’t have time in the morning. Any advice?
Answer: You can make really quick, simple meals in less than 15 minutes. I know because I do it! It will take a little planning, though.
You will need to shop and keep the right foods stocked in your kitchen. Buy chicken cutlets, ground turkey breast, fish, and lean meat.
Cut into individual serving sizes, wrap, and freeze. Before you to go work in the morning, put a portion in the refrigerator. Stock up on veggies, fresh or frozen. Buy bagged salad materials. You can come home at night and cook a chicken breast in Pam spray or a little olive oil, microwave frozen or fresh veggies, make a salad, and dinner is ready. Another quick meal is a veggie omelet. Frozen dinners on occasion.
You will just have to set goals with the exercise. Start small — maybe twice a week. Mornings might be best. Or how about taking a 30-minute walk with an exercise buddy on your lunch hour?
I would recommend that you start off by keeping a food record.
Martha McKittrick, RD, CDE, is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and certified fitness instructor who specializes in weight control, cardiovascular health, diabetes, sports, and general nutrition. WebMD content is provided to MSNBC by the editorial staff of WebMD. The MSNBC editorial staff does not participate in the creation of WebMD content and is not responsible for WebMD content. Remember that editorial content is never a substitute for a visit to a health care professional.