If you're ready to prepare healthier meals at home, we can help. Healthy cooking doesn’t have to be labor intensive. In fact, with the right tools it can be fun! Whether you want to save calories or time, these gadgets can help.
- Immersion Blender: This handy tool isn’t just for chefs anymore. Whip up your favorite protein shake or purée a healthy veggie soup in a snap (and with less mess). Consider the Cuisinart SmartStick Hand Blender ($34.95; cuisinart.com).
- Steamer Basket: Steaming is a healthy way to prepare vegetables and fish. It helps vegetables retain their nutrients. Consider steaming foods over broth instead of water to add even more flavor. The Trudeau Stainless Steam Steamer ($16.99; casa.com) is a nice option.
- Nonstick Pans/Skillets: You need a lot less oil or fat in your pan to keep food from sticking if you are using quality nonstick cookware. Cuisinart's new “green” line includes a 12-piece set ($249; cuisinart.com) to help newly minted home cooks get the essential pans and skillets.
- Portion Control Dinnerware: Over the past two decades, the average dinner plate has grown from 8½ inches to 12 inches. With portion control dinnerware, you get a visual of exactly how much you should be eating. Try the Portion Control Plate from Meal Measure ($12.95; mealmeasure.com) to help control your meal sizes.
- Handheld Chopper: No more excuses for not getting your 5-9 servings of fruits and veggies. You can chop onions, carrots, red peppers, and celery with ease. Try the OXO Good Grips Chopper ($19.95; oxo.com).
- Oil Mister: Fill your mister with canola or olive oil and you can save significant calories on all your favorite dishes. Each Tbsp oil contains 120 calories and 14g fat. With the mister, you can cover the entire bottom of a pan with a tsp. Try the Prepara Tabletop Mister ($14.99; prepara.com).
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be an exhaustive examination of the subject matter nor a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your primary care physician or healthcare provider before beginning any diet or exercise program.
Active Medi-Weightloss® patients should consult the experts at their location on whether the foods are appropriate for their stage of the program.