Mothers have it hard. The stereotypes suggest that all moms are responsible for nurturing and caring for the young and the husband. While many modern societies now see mothers as more than 1950s housewives, the tired assumptions still linger. Unfortunately, because of these preconceived and poorly thought up ideals, many women feel like they cannot be adequate mothers when they also need to work, which is hogwash. Sure, things are challenging, especially when it comes to dinner time. However, there is no reason a working mother can’t still find a way to provide healthy meals, especially with a committed partner sharing some of the responsibility. The remainder of this post is focused on how to eat healthy as a busy mom and prepare healthy options for your family, although dads or partners are not excluded from the list of potential readers.
Tips for Healthy Eating
Healthy eating comes down to changing your habits and ensuring that your house is set up for dietary success. It is crucial to make a distinction between dietary and diets. Diets are often fads or nutritional trends intended for weight loss; diet in terms of dietary nutrition is about healthy and sustainable eating. Do not go on a diet; change your dietary habits instead.
While processed foods are cheap, quick, and easy to pick up on the run, avoid them. A good rule is if you can’t grow it or raise it, don’t eat it. Also, make sure that every meal has protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and fruits and vegetables.
Another excellent rule is always to eat a balanced breakfast. People often skip breakfast in favor of more sleep, but it is best to set the alarm a little earlier to have a wholesome meal with the family in the morning.
How To Meal Plan
It is easy to find many meal planning tips for working moms, but you don’t need too many. It is easy to forget the follow-through when you get bogged down by the research. Meal planning comes down to preparation. You want to figure out your meals for at least a week and stick to the plan.
If you do not have the time, there are meal planning services, but you might not get the menu you want. Planning your menus ensures you stick to your likes, dislikes, and cooking abilities.
You can find cookbooks and online recipes for make-ahead meals like jar salads. Make-ahead options are great if you have the refrigerator and freezer space. Ultimately, how you plan your meals comes down to personal preference and time management.
Snacks To Bring on the Go
Many families are always on the move, from work and school to sports and band practice. If staying healthy is essential to you, then you might want to try some of these healthy snack options:
- Fruit and vegetables
- Mixed nuts
- Jerky
- Yogurt
- Pumpkin seeds
- Unsalted popcorn
- Hummus
- String cheese
Being a mom is hard work. By incorporating healthy eating habits, you provide yourself with the necessary nutrients and energy needed in your day-to-day life. Your body and mind will thank you!