Are meal plans worth it?
This weekend I have been watching more TV than I normally do because the family and I are on vacation. I forget what we were watching but I saw a commercial for Nutrisystem. Basically, you can buy a whole bunch of processed, packaged food, that is portioned out ready to go that is really low calorie…because…as I always say being in a calorie deficit is what is going to help you lose weight.
Now, I hate the processed food idea. I think it is terrible for you. I will almost always recommend whole foods over “fake” food 99% of time. The exception would be if you simple cannot find the time to make your on food. Even then, I would recommend you purchase food from Just 4 You Meals which uses all fresh ingredients.
But I digress. Are meal plans worth it? Is planning out what and when you eat necessary or even helpful?
In my opinion, yes it is extremely helpful, but it requires effort and forethought. Below are seven reasons why I believe planning out what and when you eat is helpful if your goal is to lose weight.
- When you plan out your meals you will be giving your body the fuel it needs for great workouts! When you have the energy for great workouts, you will obviously get better results.
- In that same vein. When you eat well you will have enough energy to get through your day without crashing.
- Having your meals planned out helps prevent binges, cravings, and it reduces your appetite so you can stay in a caloric deficit.
- Having a plan makes hitting your protein goal MUCH easier.
- Helps you lose fat AND build muscle, after all if your bodyfat doesn’t change you just become “skinny fat.”
- It builds discipline, which is trait we all need more of in my opinion including myself ;-).
- Most importantly, it empowers us to have a healthy mindset and behaviors when it comes to food
All that being said, mapping out your meals can seem daunting. If you aren’t quite there, I highly suggest you simply track your calories in the FREE app called, “MyFitnessPal.” Doing so will create awareness and help you lose weight.
Go be awesome!
KELLEN LAKE – A bad plan is better than no plan ;-).
PS – Here is a meal planning guide if you are interested, click here.
PSS – If you want refresh, healthy food, that is prepared by a Chef in a restaurant and low calorie, order your Just 4 You Meals by going to www.just4youmeals.com .
