Meal Prep: FAQ
I think we can all agree that meal prepping is one of the best ways to be sure you reach your nutritional goals, whatever they may be. I have been meal prepping for several years and just like anything else in life, I've gotten better with time and practice. I get questions weekly about my meal preps so I figured it's about time I go over a few quick points.
Q.) Where do you get your containers?
A.) Amazon! Most containers are extremely similar in terms of size and quality. I use the Freshware brand one compartment container most often. Why? -because they seem to be the cheapest. You can get a 15-pack for like $10.99.
Q.) What are your macros?
A.) I don't know. I don't count macros. I do, however, read nutrition labels regularly. My ultimate goal is a happy life and healthy habits; and I don't believe that counting every carbohydrate, or gram of protein I put in my mouth is the answer to that. If asked I could give you a general idea, but don't expect a set number because I couldn't tell ya.
Q.) Where are the carbs?
A.) I love this one! Vegetables have carbs; fruit has carbs; and most fats have carbs that come with them as well. Don't be fooled because you don't see the typical rice, potatoes and pasta. I'll also say that what typically isn't shown in a meal prep is the 'cheat meal' or the 'refeed day'. This varies depending on a number of factors for me at that moment, but usually involves more complex carbohydrates. This is something that will be different for everyone and you've got to figure out what is best for you.
Q.) What do you eat for breakfast?
A.) I don't eat breakfast. I haven't for almost a year and a half. In that time I've been as light as 146 and as heavy as 178. I follow a version of intermittent fasting (google it). Without going into all the details at the moment, I'll say that not having to worry about breakfast has taken an enormous amount of stress out of my very busy morning.
Q.) Do you get tired of eating the same thing every day?
A.) YES and NO, but mostly NO. I typically prepare the same food for lunch all week long, and the same food for dinner. This makes the prep process quicker and easier. The biggest reason I do this, however, is for learning. If I eat the same thing for five days in a row it is long enough for me to learn how I feel and how my body responds to it. When I've eaten different things every meal it gets hard to tell what food fuels me the best for my goals, and what I need to eliminate.
That does it; there are the five most frequently asked questions I receive Sunday after Sunday. Actually, as I'm writing this I'm realizing there is much more I would like to talk about in this regard. I would like to go way more in depth about each of these topics above. I'll keep you posted, but just be on the look out!
In closing, I would just like to tell you this: the first step to getting better at something is to START. Don't put it off any longer; stop making excuses! Try new things, experiment with different ideas, and learn as you go. I promise you I am not doing anything special here. The reason I've been so successful with my diet and nutrition is simply because I'm consistent.
And as always, if you have any questions email me at corcarpfit@gmail.com