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5 Benefits of Prepping Your Food

3. Grocery Shopping Will Be Fun

Before heading to the store, be sure you have a list. Mark categories: veggies, fruits, proteins, frozen foods, dairy, grains and fats. Try to include at least one new food a week in each category. For instance, if you bought salmon last week, try another fish, such as haddock or swordfish.

All foods have different nutritional components, and your list should vary so your body doesn't get too used to one way of eating. Making a list will eliminate buying sugary, processed food you don't need. Try including one item in your cart that you will enjoy in moderation, such as organic dark chocolate.

4. You'll Learn Portion Control

When focusing on weight loss or muscle gain, you should consider your calories in versus calories out. When you prep your food in advance, it's a sure way of knowing what you are consuming. Preparing your own meals will give you insight into what a true portion of food is. 

As we all know, most of the time the food in restaurants, even 'healthy' ones, are providing you with a way bigger portion. By paying attention to your own food when cooking, you will be less likely to overeat.

5. It's Not All Or Nothing

Remember that you don't have to spend hours in the kitchen for meal prep to happen. Focus on one thing at a time, and nail it before overwhelming yourself with everything all at once.

If you want to ensure that your breakfast is a priority, focus on prepping some breakfast items such as egg cups, oats or a pre-made protein shake. Have vegetables pre-washed and cut; and the same goes for fruit. Start small: Once you master one small task, you will feel confident in moving on to prepping meals for an entire day.

More: 15 Foods to Help You Lose Weight

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About the Author

naomi rotstein

Naomi Rotstein

Naomi Rotstein is a certified personal trainer (ACSM) and creator of 1FitFoodie.com. She has a passion for health, fitness and nutrition, has competed in several bikini competitions, and has a wide range of fitness certifications. Follow Naomi on Twitter @1FitFoodie, "Like" her Facebook Page or visit her personal website at 1FitFoodie.com.
Naomi Rotstein is a certified personal trainer (ACSM) and creator of 1FitFoodie.com. She has a passion for health, fitness and nutrition, has competed in several bikini competitions, and has a wide range of fitness certifications. Follow Naomi on Twitter @1FitFoodie, "Like" her Facebook Page or visit her personal website at 1FitFoodie.com.

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