Let’s face it: life is busy. Between work, family, and social commitments, finding the time to cook a healthy meal from scratch can feel like such a luxury. But that doesn’t mean that we have to sacrifice our health in favour of convenience. With a little planning and knowledge, it’s entirely possible to make healthier choices when grabbing something tasty on the go…
Understanding Convenience Food
First, let’s clear up a misconception. Convenience food isn’t inherently bad. It’s all about making more informed choices. Many packaged foods offer nutritional value, while others are packed with unhealthy additives. The key here is to read labels and understand what you’re putting into your body.
Top Tips For Making Healthier Convenience Food Choices
- Read the Labels: This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Look for foods with low levels of saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Pay attention to the ingredient list and choose options with whole and recognisable foods where possible.
- Prioritise Protein: Protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Look for snacks and meals with a good source of plant-based protein.
- Embrace Whole Grains: Opt for whole-grain bread, pasta, and crackers over refined grains. Whole grains provide fibre, which aids digestion and also helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Pack Your Own Snacks: Preparing your snacks in advance can save you from making impulsive unhealthy choices on the go. Fill reusable containers with nuts, seeds, fruit, or fresh veggies.
- Choose Fresh Produce: When possible, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables. They’re packed with nutrients and can be a quick, easy and refreshing snack.
- Meal Prep: Dedicate some time on the weekend to prepare healthy meals for throughout the rest of the week. This not only saves a lot of time, but ensures that you always have nutritious options on hand.
- Balance is Key: Remember, it’s okay to indulge in less healthy options occasionally. The key here is to have everything in moderation.
Healthy Convenience Food Ideas
- Whole-grain crackers with hummus or avocado
- Rice cakes with nut butter and banana
- Pre-cut vegetables with a low-fat dip
- Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
Better Than Foods: The Future of Pasta, Rice, and Noodles
As a vegan I know the struggle that plant-based diners face to find delicious, satisfying vegan food that doesn’t take hours to prep. Fret no more, because I’ve stumbled upon a plant-based website that’s truly a game changer – Better Than Foods!
If you’re tired of over-consuming carbs on a plant-based diet -pasta, rice, and noodles – and are you looking for a healthier, more sustainable option that doesn’t compromise on taste, then look no further than organic konjac.
Konjac is a root vegetable native to Asia that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It’s low in calories, naturally gluten-free and absolutely packed with fibre. When processed into pasta, rice, or noodles, it creates a unique texture that is both satisfying and surprisingly versatile.
Why Choose Organic Konjac?
- Health Benefits: Konjac is incredibly low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for weight management and people with diabetes. It’s also packed with fibre, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
- Gluten-Free: Konjac is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
- Sustainability: Konjac is a sustainable crop that requires minimal resources to grow. Choosing organic konjac supports environmentally friendly farming practices.
- Versatility: Konjac pasta, rice, and noodles can be used in a variety of dishes. From stir-fries to pasta sauces, the possibilities are literally endless.
How To Enjoy Konjac
Konjac pasta, rice, and noodles have a slightly different texture than traditional options. They tend to be more chewy and absorb flavours so well. What’s more, you can experiment with different delicious sauces and toppings.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Konjac Pasta: Why not toss pasta with your favourite sauce and add meat-free meatballs for plant-based protein.
- Konjac Rice: Perfect for creating a delicious sushi bowl with fresh vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of soy sauce.
- Konjac Noodles: Enjoy in a stir-fry with your favourite vegetables and plant-based protein.
By making small changes to your convenience food choices, you can significantly improve your overall health and wellbeing. Remember, it’s a journey, not a destination. Small steps can lead to big results in time. Where will your food journey take you?
