Be a Menu-Making Master

With the fast pace of life, coming up with a nutritious menu may prove to be quite a challenge. But don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for! To navigate the vast array of foods, colors, and textures, all you need is the know-how to start crafting a healthy menu.

The mastery begins in the mixing of wholefoods. These are your vibrant vegetables, juicy fruits, essential proteins, and hearty grains. With all these playing a big part in your daily dietary intake, you’ll soon taste the difference eating right makes for your health and wellbeing.  

Drafting the Healthy Guidelines

Let’s first draw in the lines segregating the types of food you’ll be incorporating in your masterpiece. If you want that added layer of assurance, be sure to get your nutritionist’s recommendations to address some dietary details that are unique to you.

With that in mind, here are the things you’ll want to have in your menu: 

What makes plants such a powerhouse diet component? They're packed with essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. You’ll also enjoy a hefty serving of fiber to help your tummy work. This is why crunchy leaves and greens are perfect side dishes and salads—they’ll help digest whatever you had alongside them like animal meats. Even on their own, veggies are a treat as well. Just gather a bunch and sauté them together and you have a viand fit for a whole meal!

Different fruits have different health benefits. Enjoying an assortment of fruits regularly will help you reap various health goodies, around three servings a day would do. The fresher the fruit, the better the quality. No need to fret when having to get them canned or cooked. Even if they lose a little bit of their punch, it’s still better than not having them at all. 

There’s no discrimination in where you get your proteins, plant-based or animal-based are both viable sources. Have as much fun on your main courses and viands, whether they be savory fillets or tofu sisig. This nutrient is key to keeping you strong and satisfied.  

How long can you go without rice? If you’re Filipino, probably not for long—that’s generally a good thing! Rice, alongside other grain examples like quinoa and oats, are delicious options packed with fiber and complex carbohydrates to keep you feeling full and energized all day long. And the best part? They're super versatile, so you can enjoy them morning, noon, and night. 

It’s time to rid ourselves of this stigma—sweets are not bad! Having the occasional cake or chocolate bar is not without its benefits. For one, it helps regulate your mood—who doesn’t feel good after a tasty ice cream? Sugar in dessert is also a good source of energy. Like everything in life, it’s all in moderation. After all, food should be both nutritious and enjoyable! 

Different Strokes for Different Folks

It’s tempting to get started making your menu, but it’s always good to ask your nutritionist first. They'll help you navigate the world of nutrition and find what works best for you. It’s also good to remember that eating well should not break your bank. One way to ensure your budget’s safety is going for seasonal fruits and veggies. This keeps the cost down without compromising on nutrients.

 Now that you've got the lowdown on crafting a healthy menu, it's time to dig in and enjoy. Bon appétit!