Weight Loss Starts In the Kitchen Drawer and Cabinet
By Rachel Carver
Before you jump into tackling a weight loss goal, you first need a plan. A part of that plan is arming yourself with the right tools and strategies that will lead to your success.
Every plan should start in the kitchen. You spend a lot of time in your home, and your kitchen is where you prepare and usually consume your food.
Here are some tips that will boost your confidence in the kitchen and optimize your cooking space for success.
Mindset Matters
The way you feel in your kitchen matters. Mindset can influence your success. Here are some ways to feel good about your kitchen.
- Wash the dishes, remove the trash, and clear off the table and countertops if they are cluttered before you start cooking
- Take some deep breaths, or listen to your favorite podcast while you cook to relax
- Keep fresh fruit on the counter instead of baked goods for a healthy snack option
- Store chips and cookies in a drawer or in the back of a cabinet so you do not see these unhealthy items first
- Store healthy items in glass containers in the front of your fridge so you can easily see them when you are hungry
Get Organized
An organized kitchen will help you quickly get a healthy meal on the table. Focus on areas such as your spice rack and utensil drawer. Start with these tips.
- Donate duplicate utensils or items you never use
- Toss any expired cooking oils
- Make more space on your counter for appliances such as the crockpot you want to use more often to make them more accessible
- Store similar items such as measuring spoons and cups in the same place
You also need the proper tools to easily and efficiently create healthy meals. Here are some essential tools to consider.
Knives - Every cook needs a chef knife. But they also need a good paring knife, carving knife, and serrated knife. You'll be able to slice and dice any food item your healthy recipe calls for.
Cutting boards - You'll want multiple cutting boards. Use a wooden board to chop veggies. Cut up meat and fish on a non-porous board.
Mixing bowls - Mixing bowls with lids in varying sizes serve multiple purposes. You might use one for marinating food. You might use another to toss together a salad. You might even find a bowl that works great for baking.
Once your kitchen is set up, you will find parts of your weight loss plan such as making grocery lists and prioritizing time for meal prep much easier.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Rockville, Md.