Today I am going to share with you some tips for cooking for yourself, that I have turned into habits. These tips are helpful for anyone, but are particularly useful for those gluten-free college/ graduate students that are just starting to cook for themselves. Hope this helps.
- Take advantage of your smart phone: I love to use my iPhone notes to make weekly meal plans and grocery shopping lists. This keeps me organized, on budget, and helps me during those particular busy weeks.
- Coupons, Coupons, Coupons: Shop smart! Eating some organic products and being on a gluten and dairy free diet can get very expensive, but I believe there is no price to good health. However, I have found it is possible to save money. Check out your Sunday paper, go online, and directly to company pages to find savings… last week I saved over $12 at Wegman’s {very proud moment}. Helpful tip: purchase a coupon organizer to stay organized!
- Get Creative: I am guilty of staying in my “food restriction comfort zone” and often cook the meals I know are quick and healthy. This gets boring. Go on the internet, search blogs, and purchase magazines to keep your dishes creative. Helpful tip: To save money find recipes that don’t require a ton of ingredients.
- Take advantage of your Breaks: I love to use my time at home to not only relax but to do some food prep work. Making things such as garlic chicken, my favorite turkey burgers, and mom’s applesauce. Do not cook the meat. Instead seal them frozen. Then when you are ready to enjoy them at school all you have to do is defrost and cook as directed.
- Labels & Dedicated Space: This tip is specifically for those who share a space with gluten-eaters. Although I welcome my roommates to my food, I still have to stay safe. This means using a yellow label to indicate it is safe for me. I am also fortunate to have my own cabinate.
- Prep Days: Designate a preparation day. I choose to do this on Sunday. Prepping meals makes making dinner easier throughout the week and helps me to stay stress free and eating healthy.
- Give yourself a Break: Pick up a meal from your favorite restaurant from time to time. Most of the time the portions are bigger then one. Leftovers!
Author Information: Candice Rose Clifford
After being diagnosed with non-celiac gluten sensitivity Candice started Embrace G-free. On this honest account you will find posts which empower you to live your happiest and healthiest gluten free life, in addition to reci
pes, product reviews, and resources.
www.embracegfree.com
www.facebook.com/embracegfree
Find Me on Twitter: CandiceRose90
I would like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in writing this site. I am hoping to see the same high-grade content from you in the future as well. In fact, your creative writing abilities has motivated me to get my own, personal website now ;)
I am glad the piece inspired you!
Great tips! It can be hard to live Gluten-free but this made it a little easier!