June 1, 2020
For many, buying food and preparing meals have become another source of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Suzanne Henson, RD, LD, a registered dietitian at University Medical Center, recently spoke with al.com and offered some strategies for healthy and inexpensive eating during COVID-19.
Henson said it’s important to shop for produce that is in-season. She said it can get expensive buying out-of-season fruits and vegetables.
Frozen produce is always a go-to because it’s easy to prepare, healthy and inexpensive, Henson said. She said there are also good frozen meats and fish that people can buy that cost less than their fresh counterparts. In addition, Henson recommends putting fresh foods in the freezer. For example, if there is a special on a whole rotisserie chicken at the grocery store, but you can’t eat it all at one meal, buy it anyway and freeze what’s left to eat later.
“Beans are fantastic,” Henson said. “Black beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, which are so versatile.” She said not only are they packed with protein and fiber, but a can of beans often sells for about 80 cents. They’re easy to cook with, and often require no cooking at all and can be used straight from the can.
In addition to salt-free seasonings, Henson always keeps the following on hand to season food: red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, ponzu sauce and lemon and lime juice.
Henson said it is important to stay hydrated. She said it can be hard to remember to drink when you constantly have a mask over your face, but water is critical to health, especially if you’re on medication. Water can also help you from overeating, and staying hydrated can help prevent headaches, she said.
You can read the entire article on AL.com.
