How To Fuel Your Body During The Pandemic? Read Here

There is also a correlation between poor sleep quality and quantity and enhanced reward response to food that is irresistible – salty, sweet, oily.

Here’s what you should do

• Practice good sleep habits
• Try going to bed and wake up at consistent times each day
• Put screens away an hour before bedtime
• Avoid caffeine eight hours before you go to sleep

3. Stock a nutritious pantry

Stocking up on nutritious foods that can be stored for several weeks is a good habit to be always prepared no matter what the situation. Once you have a lot of options, you can always think of innovative and healthy meals for yourself.

Brown rice, whole grain pasta, oatmeal, whole grain cereals, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, almonds, canned tuna, peanut butter and dried fruit are recommended.

4. Make use of the freezer

Since we don’t step out frequently now, it is not always possible to keep a ready stock of fresh fruits and vegetables because they tend to get spoilt fast.

What you can do

• Shop for produce that lasts longer such as carrots, potatoes, cabbage, apples, winter squash, oranges, clementines, yams, celery and sweet potatoes.
• Stock up on frozen vegetables and fruit if possible.

5. Be creative in your cooking

There are many ways to make balanced, nutritious meals by combining protein with a starch and a vegetable. Keep ideas and recipes that allow you to cook with what you have.

Challenge yourself to invent a meal based on ingredients available.

6. Pack a lunch

If you are not working from home, it is a good idea to pack your lunch in the morning. This will ensure that you have a nutritious meal.

7. Snack with intention

Many people tend to snack more when they are stressed. Make sure this food does not displace regular, balanced meals. To be more conscious about snacking, use a bowl or plate rather than eating directly out of a container. This helps you see how much you’re eating and can slow how quickly you eat.

8. Keep moving

Move your body when working from home or quarantining. It is more important than ever to have a consistent exercise routine. In addition to the numerous benefits of physical activity, including boosting your immune system, exercise can have a positive impact on how and what you eat.

A recent study published in the International Journal Of Obesity found that the more participants exercised, the more likely they were to eat nutrient-dense foods, like fruits and vegetables, rather than less nutritious snacks. People who exercise may be more likely to be motivated to fuel their body properly.