As a dad, a husband and a business owner, I have a busy lifestyle. It is a challenge to make nutrition a priority in my life and because I am so busy I like to keep nutrition as simple as possible.
These four simple guidelines for each meal have helped keep me on track with a strong nutrition plan.
First, my goal is to keep a majority of my meals consisting of whole foods: lean meats, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. Highly processed foods contain high amounts of sodium, sugar and unhealthy fats that I don’t need.
Second, each meal must include a source of protein. Protein helps me build lean muscle and increase metabolism. My body also uses protein to build and repair tissues after tough workouts.
Third, each meal must include a vegetable and fruit. Vegetables and fruits are highly concentrated with vitamins, minerals and fiber that are essential for my body to function efficiently. Simply adding these to each meal has helped with my energy and feeling fuller for longer.
Fourth, each meal must include a source of healthy fats. Healthy fats can be found in nuts, seeds, avocados, etc. I’ve found including healthy fats helps keep my mind sharp and keeps my mood balanced.
I have found that simply adhering to these guidelines for each meal has produced an easy to follow nutrition plan that doesn’t require a lot of planning or guesswork.
Here is what a typical day of meals looks like for me:
BREAKFAST
Oatmeal mixed with whey protein, applesauce, blueberries, chia seeds and a side of mini-peppers.
LUNCH
Ground turkey on top of a bag of steamed mixed vegetables, black beans, and flax seed topped with salsa, with an apple on the side.
MID-AFTERNOON SNACK
Oatmeal mixed with whey protein, applesauce, peanut butter, a small dark chocolate bar and a side of carrots.
DINNER
Cubed chicken breast on top of a bag of steamed broccoli, garbanzo beans, rice, flax seed, avocado and a banana on the side.
As a husband and father, my goal is to be healthy in order to take care of my family in the long term. I understand that investing in my health and fitness now will pay large dividends in the future.
In the past, I’ve had different goals and used different nutrition strategies to reach those goals and each person is different, has different goals and a different relationship with nutrition.
Which is why I recommend working with a nutrition coach to help you identify those goals and what type of nutrition approach you should take.
In 2018, I hired a nutrition coach to help me qualify for the CrossFit Games. It was the biggest factor behind my success. If you’re ready to reach your goals, schedule a free consultation with our nutrition team!
COACH PHIL KNIEP
Precision Nutrition L1 Coach
CrossFit Level 3 Trainer
Endurance Certified
Mobility Certified
Scaling Certified
3x CrossFit Games Qualifier