It’s almost time for that milestone event so many parents lose sleep over. The start of a new year marks the end of 12 years of schooling, and a fresh crop of young adults can’t wait to head off and spread their wings and embark on the exciting journey of moving out of the parental home, to either live interstate, maybe start a university or college degree, travel, or move into shared living arrangement as they enter the workforce.
And guess what? Mum’s homemade lasagne isn’t going to magically appear on the dinner table anymore. One of the key challenges of this newfound freedom is the responsibility of taking charge of what goes into their bodies and maintaining a well-balanced and nutritious diet.But fear not! Managing nutritional needs and avoiding a diet that consists solely of instant noodles and cereal isn’t as tricky as it seems.
Here are 10 casual tips for all you young adults out there who are venturing into the kitchen on your own.
1. Embrace the Art of Planning and Meal Prep
Remember those days when you could raid the fridge and find a ready-made feast? Well, those days are over. Enter the world of meal prep, where a little planning goes a long way. Spend some time each week to firstly outline your meals and make a shopping list, which helps with budgeting and avoids the temptation of impulse buys. Then chop veggies, grill some chicken, or cook up a batch of healthy nibbles. Toss them into containers, and voilà —your future self will thank you for those hassle-free lunches and dinners. This not only helps you stay organised but also means you have a variety of nutrient-dense foods on hand and prevents reliance on unhealthy, junk-food convenient options.
2. Don’t Fear the Produce Aisle
Green, leafy things are your friends. No, seriously. Vegetables are packed with vitamins and nutrients that your body needs. They also add colour to your plate, making your meals Instagram-worthy. Experiment with different veggies to keep things interesting—roast them, stir-fry them, or throw them into a salad. Diversity ensures you’re getting a broad spectrum of nutrients which supports better immunity and energy levels, and improved digestion. The produce aisle is your oyster!
3. Master the Basics
If your culinary skills are currently limited to boiling water for instant noodles, it’s time to level up. Learn a few simple recipes like scrambled eggs, grilled chicken, or pasta with a killer homemade sauce. Having a few go-to dishes up your sleeve will save you from the monotony of eating the same thing every day and will impress your friends when they come over.
4. Keep Snacks on Standby
Hunger can strike at any moment, and it’s crucial to be prepared. Stock up on healthy snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fresh fruit. These not only keep the hangry beast at bay but also provide a quick energy boost for those late-night Netflix binges.
5. Hydration is Key
Put down that energy drink and pick up a water bottle. Staying hydrated is essential for overall well-being. Plus, water is basically the elixir of life. If plain water doesn’t excite you, add some citrus slices or herbs to add a hint of flavour. Your skin, energy levels, and future self will thank you.
6. Befriend Your Kitchen Appliances
Your kitchen is more than just a microwave. Explore your stove, oven, and blender. Learning to use these tools opens a world of culinary possibilities. And hey, cooking can be therapeutic. Who knew?
7. Balance is the Name of the Game
Yes, pizza is life, but so is a well-balanced diet. Aim for a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats in each meal. Don’t be afraid to indulge in your favourite treats, but also make sure you’re getting the nutrients your body needs to thrive. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between avocado toast and late-night pizza runs.
8. Get Creative with Leftovers
Leftovers are the unsung heroes of adulting. Instead of relegating them to the back of the fridge until they develop their own ecosystem, get creative. Turn last night’s grilled chicken into a wrap, toss leftover veggies into an omelette, or transform that rice into a stir-fry. Your taste buds and your wallet will thank you.
9. Read the Labels
No, not just the expiration date. Take a moment to glance at the nutritional information on the packaging. It might seem a waste of time, but it’s the easiest way to know what you’re putting into your body. Look out for sneaky sugars, excess salt and overly processed ingredients.
10. Ask for Help
Adulting is hard, and no one expects you to have it all figured out. If you’re clueless in the kitchen or unsure about your nutritional needs, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Call up your mum, consult the internet, or even consider a cooking class. You’re not alone in this journey.
So there you have it—ten casual tips to help you navigate the kitchen and manage your nutritional needs as a young adult. NutriKane™ also offers a range of products that are easy to take, and useful for those times when you might need an extra bit of support during times of exam stress, late night classes or recovery from a bit too much partying. Visit our shop for further information.
