A Guide to Healthy and Eco-Friendly Eating
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is easy with meal prep. And if you’re following a low-carb diet, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are countless delicious and nutritious low carb meal prep ideas out there. But have you ever considered the sustainability of your meal prep routine? In this article, we’ll explore how you can prepare low-carb meals in a way that’s good for your body and kind to our planet.
Why Choose Low Carb?
There are lots of health benefits to low-carb diets, including weight loss, better heart health, and better blood sugar control. But what exactly is considered a low-carb meal? As a rule of thumb, a low-carb recipe typically contains less than 5% carbs. This means substituting traditional carbs like rice and pasta with vegetables, which can be a fun and creative culinary challenge.
Sustainable Low Carb Meal Prep Ideas
Now, let’s dive into some sustainable low carb meal prep ideas that are not only healthy but also delicious and easy to prepare.
Zucchini Shrimp Scampi
This recipe, originally from Damn Delicious, replaces pasta with zucchini noodles, making it a perfect low-carb, gluten-free meal. Plus, shrimp is a sustainable seafood choice when sourced responsibly.
Cauliflower Rice Bowls
Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional rice. You can pair it with your protein of choice (think chicken, tofu, or beans), and a rainbow of veggies for a nutritious and eco-friendly meal.
Lettuce Wraps
Lettuce wraps, like turkey & cheddar or Greek chicken with tzatziki sauce, are a low-carb, low-waste alternative to sandwiches. Opt for romaine or Boston lettuce for the best results.
Vegan Red Thai Coconut Curry
This hearty curry is packed with veggies and tofu, making it a great low-carb, plant-based option. Plus, by choosing a vegan meal, you’re reducing your carbon footprint.
Bacon, Walnut, & Honey Brussel Sprouts
This side dish is a delicious way to enjoy this high-fiber, low-carb vegetable. Opt for sustainably sourced bacon and local honey to make it even more eco-friendly.
Low-Carb Meal Prep Tips
Here are some tips to make your low-carb meal prep even more sustainable:
- Choose Seasonal and Local: Buying seasonal and local produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food. Plus, it’s often fresher and tastier!
- Reduce Food Waste: Plan your meals to use up all ingredients and compost any unavoidable waste.
- Opt for Eco-Friendly Packaging: Use reusable containers for your meal prep to reduce plastic waste.
- Consider Plant-Based Proteins: Foods like lentils, beans, and tofu are not only low in carbs but also have a lower environmental impact than most animal-based proteins.
Wrapping Up
Meal prepping low-carb can be easy with a little planning and creativity. These meals also help the environment while keeping you on track. Sustainable living starts with small steps!