5 Tips for Meal Planning During COVD-19 Quarantine

The pandemic has created some challenges for those of us on special diets. Here are some tips to work through those challenges.

• Keep the menu simple.

  It occurred to me last week that some of my menu items may be a little too ambitious or have too many ingredients for our current situation. Meals with only a few ingredients tend to work well and take less time to make. Now is probably not the best time to experiment unless you have lots of time and know that you can find your desired ingredients.

• Delivery/Pick Up

  Most grocery stores are still operating, allowing you the option to shop in person. I would encourage you to avoid this right now, if possible. Not only for health reasons, but I’ve also realized that spending time in the store trying to get everything that I need isn’t really that efficient at this time. Delivery has been difficult to get in my area, but I highly recommend it if it’s available to you. Delivery and pick-up options are great because they allow you to see what’s in stock without having to pivot your game plan inside the store, which ultimately costs you more time and is frustrating.

• Accept that you may have to substitute with conventional or non-organic items.

  I typically buy organic, free-range, wild-caught, etc. This is my personal preference because of the link between fibroids and the effects of some of these foods. Right now it may be difficult to find some of the items you usually buy if this is a preference for you. To remove some or most of the pesticides from your raw fruits and vegetables be sure to wash them really well in a vinegar/water solution.

• Opt for prepared foods.

  Prepared foods often get a bad rap because they tend to be processed and/or are higher in sodium. They also tend to cost a little more than preparing the same items from scratch, but right now this is an option to consider. While not always ideal, they can be a lifesaver. Consider substituting your usual proteins with deli meats or other already prepared meat.

• Cut the meat.

  I’ve made it a point over the last month to cut back on my meat consumption. Many studies link fibroids, PCOS, and other reproductive issues to excess meat consumption. Try incorporating more vegetarian items such as beans and nuts as a new protein source.

  BONUS: Fill in the gaps with a meal delivery service like Freshly. During hectic periods in life, I use their 6-meal plan to fill in the gaps for days that I get busy, forget to cook, or just need to scratch one thing off my to-do list.