5 Ways to Eat Better This Spring

Spring is a time of renewal – the perfect time to reset our bodies and start eating healthier. Here are some ways you and your family can spring into nutrition:

• Make Your Own Meal Prep: Say “no” to expensive take-out and use the weekend to prepare a couple of meals for the week. Make a big pot of your favorite dish and swap some with a friend for variety. HINT: Get in the habit of packing up and freezing leftovers in ready-to-use containers – they’ll make for a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel like leftovers!
• Don’t Be Afraid of Frozen Produce: While canned produce often loses its nutritional value and can be loaded with salt, sugar and preservatives, frozen produce is a great alternative. Freezing fruit and vegetables does not compromise nutritional value and can be used in many different ways. Freeze seasonal foods, or buy them frozen. BONUS: Frozen vegetables are typically cheaper than fresh vegetables.
• Carry Snacks: How often do you grab something high in fat or sugar because you or your kids are “hangry?” Keep hunger at bay by making sure you have something that is filling, like nuts or cheese sticks.
• Pick plant protein: Try a meat-free day once a week. Choose beans (black, kidney, pinto or white beans), peas (split peas or chickpeas), soy-based products (veggie burgers or other meat-free, main-course options like tofu or tempeh), nuts or seeds.
• Visit Farmers Markets: Looking for an affordable way to buy organic local produce? Your neighborhood farmers market might be your best bet. Farmers markets are a great way to get organic fruits and vegetables, humanely farmed meat and fresh fish. Many farmers markets offer family activities and accept EBT.