When trying to eat healthy, your weekly grocery lists can feel a little overwhelming. But cleaning up your diet doesn't have to be so daunting! If you make sure that you always have a few staples in your kitchen, meal planning and grocery shopping became a whole lot easier.
Here are some things that we, at BodyRock, like to keep on hand. With these items around, we know we can always build a healthy meal:
1. All Natural Peanut Butter (or Almond Butter)
Nut butters contain an incredible combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them great foods for your healthy goals. They can be spread on slices of fruit, vegetables, whole grain toast, added to your smoothies, or mixed into your morning bowl of oats. They can help keep you feeling full, satisfied, and energized. Here is a creative (and sinfully delicious) breakfast idea to get your mornings started the right way:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEEtMQvfJXk
2. Tuna
Tuna is a perfect, fast, versatile, inexpensive source of protein. You can mix it into a salad, make a sandwich or eat it straight from the can! Tuna is also a good source of
omega-3 fatty acids which can help lower your blood pressure and B vitamins that will help to boost your energy. Here is one of our favorite lunches at BodyRockHQ, have a look! You can thank us later:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAPbVWoVQsw
3. Chickpeas
Chickpeas can be a real lifesaver when it comes to eating right. They are inexpensive and full of protein and fiber. They help to fill out dishes that might otherwise feel too light and unsatisfying. Chickpeas are great in curries or added to your favorite spinach salad. And, of course, they are the main ingredient in one of our go-to snack items: HUMMUS! Slice up some veggies, whip up some hummus and you're set!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzZToWUHMNM
4. Oats
For years people have been afraid of carbs, but thankfully the tides are turning. A serving of rolled oats makes a great breakfast. It will give you lots of fiber while providing your with sustainable energy. It will not spike your blood sugar (like a donut or sugary cereal will) which means you will not experience that dreaded energy crash. Oats can be added to smoothies, made into porridge, or added to your baking. Here is one breakfast idea you might want to try:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Do1ziLXSHh8
5. Greek Yogurt
Another great source of protein, plain Greek yogurt can be used in so many different ways. You can eat it straight up with a bit of muesli or you can add it to your morning smoothie for some additional creaminess. It can be eaten as a snack with a little bit of fruit, nuts, and/or seeds. Greek yogurt also serves as a wonderful, healthy substitute for sour cream and mayonnaise in a variety of dishes. Deviled eggs, baked potatoes, even good ol' chicken salad can get a boost from Greek yogurt:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tw4sXEfd9Qo
Want to learn more about how to build a healthy kitchen? Check out the
BodyRock Meal Plan. This plan includes a host of useful information about nutrition, meal planning, and of course, a wide variety of recipes!
What are your healthy pantry staples? Does your list look like ours or do you have something to add? Share your list with us!
