We are living in difficult times and being at home may mean that we are more likely to reach for snacks. It is, however, also easy to stay healthy with great recipes and food that will help keep our weight down and our energy up. Why not look at something such as delicious scalloped potatoes and ham? Or perhaps a simple Greek salad with feta, olives, and tomatoes. Eating healthy at home doesn’t have to be difficult but there are some things to remember during quarantine. It may be easy to order takeaway more than ever before and that is great too. It’s good to support local companies but also it’s vital to keep a good stable diet now that our exercise is limited. Piling on the pounds is easy!
Here are a few ways to eat wisely:
- Choose whole foods instead of processed – This includes fruit, veg, and grains that are all very wholesome and will keep your digestive system healthy and less sluggish.
- Avoid sugary drinks – These types of drinks will be very bad for your system at this time. They may offer a quick high but they will not do any good for you in the long run for your weight gain.
- Keep healthy foods readily available for kids – Make sure the kids have access to healthy foods and snacks including yogurts, fruit, and flapjacks that will be a little sweet treat and also not super sugary.
- Go nuts for nuts – Nuts are very good for you and provide lots of minerals and vitamins. Walnuts are great and are easy to chew. This will be great for a quick snack at your desk or whilst you’re watching TV!
- Eat more fish for Omega 3 – This is vital at the moment for your joints. Sitting around will mean your joints will cease up easier. You will be surely thankful for adding some fish into your diet to keep your joints supple.
- Use whole grain flour – If you choose to bake then whole grain flour will be great for the digestive system and also to stop weight gain. The same goes for any type of grain such as rice and pasta, if you plan to eat a lot of these types of food, then opt for whole grain. You may find that there is still some left of this at the supermarket also.
- Eat smaller portions – This may sound like a simple one, but it is still something we all do. We put a lot on our plates and feel obliged to eat it all. Keep portions small, even if that means not making as much for dinner. Don’t go hungry of course but be sure that you are keeping those portions to healthy sizes for both you and your kids.
- Bake healthy snacks – you can do this with the kids and it’s a great way to pass time also! It will also allow them to learn some new skills.
- Plan Dessert – Even if you don’t normally have dessert, plan something special once or twice a week. When it’s planned ahead, you can make healthier choices.
Nobody wants to put on weight during quarantine. Eating well is only part of staying healthy. Keep (or get) moving. There are so many fitness videos on YouTube – choose some to do with the whole family. Take a walk – if you have ability in your area. Be sure to keep to your normal sleeping and waking times. When the time comes to begin regular activities, you’ll be better off having these routines already in place. Don’t forget about mental and emotional health, too. What would you add to our Healthy Quarantine Tips?