Would you believe that the most commonly used kitchen appliance for family meals isn’t the stove, oven or even the microwave? It may actually be the power window.
April Hamilton, RN, BSN, pediatric gastrointestinal and healthy weight nutrition nurse with Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health, shares her advice on making small changes to improve your family’s nutrition without sacrificing time or convenience.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Making quick, nutritious meals at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Start simple. On-the-go breakfast: Blend a healthy fruit smoothie to enjoy on your commute. Scramble an egg with last night’s grilled veggies and wrap it in a whole wheat tortilla for a quick breakfast burrito.
Dinnertime fix: When evenings are full of meetings, kids’ activities, you name it, skipping the drive-thru is possible. Batch cooking, simple one-pan meals and slow-cooker recipes can make home-cooked dinners easier than you think.
The Power of a Family Meal
Research shows that sitting down to eat together as a family can improve everything from communication to healthier eating habits. Plus, preparing meals at home saves both time and money. If cooking at home feels overwhelming, start small. Commit to just a few easy meals each week. Over time, you’ll build confidence, and eating well will become second nature.
Those who ditch the fast-food habit often report slimming waistlines and growing cash savings — two great reasons to rethink that drive-thru run.
