Mastering Meal Planning
FIT4MOM x Jessica Maurer x Sohailla Digsby
Many moms struggle to balance family responsibilities and maintain a healthy lifestyle in today's fast-paced world. However, in our Mama Masterclass with registered dietitian and author Sohailla Digsby, we learned valuable insights and practical tips for mastering meal planning and making healthier choices for the whole family.
By strategically preparing meals ahead of time and focusing on nutritious options, moms can ensure that their families stay on track with their health goals while minimizing stress and saving time. Sohailla's emphasis on prioritizing protein and produce in every meal and snack serves as a simple yet effective guideline for busy moms striving to make healthier choices for themselves and their loved ones. With her “Triple P” principle (learn more in tip #4 below), moms can confidently approach snack and meal planning, knowing they provide their families with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
Here are 5 tips for mastering meal planning as shared in our Mama Masterclass with Sohailla Digsby. Plus, learn how to win her cookbook “Best Body Cookbook & Menu Plan”!
Embrace the "Week That Works" Formula
Sohailla introduced us to her innovative meal-planning strategy, "Week That Works." This approach streamlines planning and preparation by incorporating themed meals for each day of the week, such as Meatless Monday or Taco Tuesday. By engaging the family in the process and strategically using leftovers, moms can simplify their hectic schedules while ensuring nutritious meals throughout the week.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to make extras for your “planned-overs,” not left-overs!
Get Creative with Ethnic Flavors
Instead of sticking to traditional meal options, Sohailla encourages moms to explore a variety of ethnic cuisines for inspiration. Whether Mediterranean, Italian, or Greek, incorporating diverse flavors adds excitement to mealtime and encourages adventurous eating habits among family members.
Involve Kids in Meal Planning and Preparation
Engaging children in meal planning fosters a sense of ownership and encourages healthier eating habits from a young age. Sohailla suggests letting kids participate in grocery shopping, selecting ingredients, and even preparing meals. This makes the process more enjoyable and empowers children to make informed choices about their food.
Bonus Tip: Teach kids to make a happy face with a plate. The bottom half is a mouth full of vegetables. The top corner is protein, and the opposite is carbohydrate. Add a nose of fat in the middle.
Triple P = Prioritize Protein and Produce
Sohailla emphasizes the importance of prioritizing protein and produce in snacks and meals. By following the Triple P Principle—Prioritize Protein and Produce—moms can ensure that snacks are satisfying and provide essential nutrients to fuel the family throughout the day. A balance of protein-rich foods and colorful fruits and vegetables promotes satiety and supports overall health.
Maintain Flexibility and Balance
While Sohailla advocates for nutritious eating habits, she also emphasizes the importance of flexibility and balance. Rather than demonizing certain foods, she encourages moms to find a middle ground that allows for occasional treats while prioritizing wholesome options. By adopting a balanced approach to nutrition, moms can model healthy eating behaviors and cultivate positive relationships with food for themselves and their families.
Bonus Tip: Text the word “fitness” to 33777 to win the “Best Body Cookbook & Menu Plan.”
Implementing the tips from Sohailla Digsby's insightful interview can help moms simplify their mealtime routines, promote healthier eating habits, and ultimately lead their families toward a more nourished life.
Remember, meal planning is not just about what's on the plate—it's about fostering connections, instilling healthy habits, and nourishing both body and soul.
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