Hello everyone,
The good weather has finally arrived in South Florida and it is time to spend more time outside.
But I mean spending time outside walking, jogging, biking, gardening, golfing, boating, playing tennis, etc, etc, etc…. NOT spending time eating out!
Obesity related diseases are on the rise, as are the number of folks who are just plain unhappy with how they look, move and feel. Cooking at home seems to be the first step in our road to healthier lives.
And now with less restrictions about getting out, many may go overboard having the majority of their meals out, instead of cooking at home.
Here are my top 5 reasons to starting cooking and eating at home:
#1: Your Health
Processed foods are harmful to our health, and that is exactly where we get the bulk of our calories. Even restaurant food that contains fresh produce, chances are high that the produce is not organic, or local or non-GMO. Most of us are eating less than half of the recommended amount of fiber, fruit and vegetables, which eating at home could quickly change.
Simple meals made at home with fresh produce and organic meats or eggs are nutritionally superior to over-flavored, over-processed restaurant food. Not to mention the high calorie beverages and starters that so often accompany a restaurant meal. When you eat at home you take in more nutrient-dense calories that are higher in fiber.
#2: It Is Easy
Eating out has conditioned our concept of a meal to be one with complicated flavors and accompaniments. This misconception has made us fear the kitchen. But I urge you to reconsider.
Meals made at home do not need to mirror those ordered in restaurants. On the contrary, simple is better when it comes to home cooking. Plan your entire meal around a couple of pieces of fresh produce and a wholesome, lean protein. No need for complicated sauces or sides – these are where the harmful calories hide anyway.
#3: It Is Cheap
Fresh, simple ingredients do not cost much. Especially when compared to the cost of prepared meals. Shopping the perimeter of the store is always a good plan. There you will find fresh produce, meats, dairy and seafood. Venture into the aisles for oils and spices to compliment the fresh ingredients.
#4: It Is Proactive
In the US the annual health care expenses related to obesity is $150 billion, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Worldwide this number is over $1 trillion annually. These numbers are staggering, and sobering when you think of all the individual lives that are being negatively impacted by obesity.
Rather than waiting for you and your family members to experience the health risks related to obesity, start your own mission to cook simple meals at home and redirect your future. Remember the words of Benjamin Franklin, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
#5: It Is Slimming
Eating at home is also one of the best ways to lose weight. Meals eaten at home contain an average of 200 calories less than meals eaten out. Let me tell you, a reduction in 200+ calories per meal will quickly translate to pounds lost!
Start today, and do not be afraid to start small.
Pick one meal that you will make at home either today or tomorrow, and write down your simple menu and grocery list.
And let’s not forget that a challenging, consistent exercise program plays a very important role in your quest for good health.
Call or email us today to get started on a exercise program that really works for you.