Meal Prepping Tips

I meal prep about once a week. It takes me about 2 hours total. If I don't do it, I'm more likely to stray off my meal plans and nibble on and grab stuff I shouldn't be :p PB… ice cream… chocolate… jk. No really.

#1 PLAN OUT YOUR MEALS! 

Write them down. Example: Monday-Sunday, #1-#5/#6, unless they're all the same. You can eat 6 small meals, 3 big meals, or 10 mini meals- do what works for you! Yes, they say 6 small meals keep the metabolism working, but some people just don't have time for that. 

The most important thing is that you are fueling your body with foods that will help you reach YOUR goals. 

Every BODY is different. 

Don't starve yourself, don't punish yourself, and don't deprive yourself. You will hate the process. It's important to have a good relationship with food! 

You can use containers or zip lock bags. Containers are kind of annoying to wash 2-5x a day, but if you don't mind, do it.

Grocery Shopping Tips:

1. Buy what you can in bulk to last for 2 weeks of prep- chicken, fish, frozen/canned veggies, rice, pasta, and breads. I go to SAM's Club every other weekend. 

**Personally, like buying ground turkey/chicken/beef because it's easier and faster to cook and portion out.

2. Buy fresh foods once a week before meal prep- veggies, fruits, potatoes etc. 

3. BRING YOUR LIST. Sucks having to go back to buy that one thing that slipped your mind.

Organizing Tips:

1. Lay your containers in rows for Monday-Sunday. 

2. Write on a piece of paper what meals are what day. If they are all the same then it is super easy! Just keep it there as a reminder for each container. 

Cooking Tips:

1. If you are able to cook your breakfast fresh in the morning, don't add it into your meal prep. If you need to grab and go, include it. I cook my breakfast, make my shake post-workout, and depending on what my last meal of the day is, I make it before bed so they are not included in meal prep. 

2. Cook all your meats first. It gives them time to cool off and set before you portion them off. 

3. Cook your carbs second, while you portion off your protein.

4. Lastly, veggies. 

5. Any leftovers can go in individual ziplock bags and put in the freezer until next meal prep. 

Seasonings: 

My favorites are Mrs. Dash, sea salt, adobo, and lots of hot sauce. 

Hope this has been somewhat helpful. I'll do another blog on EXAMPLE meal plans!

IG @coral.suarez

xoxo