Small meals, big benefits
Face it. Taking the time to sit down for a proper meal isn’t always possible with our busy lifestyles. But there is a healthy option — small meals.
What are small meals? Basically, they’re smaller but still healthy meals you eat more frequently than the traditional 3 square meals a day. (Think of a small quiche around noon.) The idea is not to eat more than you would in a typical 3-meal-a-day plan, but to redistribute that food intake over the course of your day by eating — 5 to 6 small meals a day. Aim to eat a variety of nutritious foods every 3 to 4 hours. Ideally, each small meal should have some carbohydrate and some lean protein. This will keep your body evenly fueled throughout the day.
Other small meal tips include:
- Don’t graze all day. Plan for specific food at specific times. It can help to stock up on groceries for the entire week, and prepare and pre-portion items for quick and easy eating.
- Choose nutrient-dense foods, such as salmon, dark greens, chickpeas, whole-wheat crackers, and blueberries. Remember — when thinking small meals, think maximum nutrition.
- Consider Ensure® to help fill any nutrition gaps. Stocking up on different flavours can keep your taste buds happy too.