Spending prolonged periods of time in our room can often lead to increased levels of anxiety. Being cut off from the outside world and lacking human interaction can be challenging, especially for those who may already be prone to anxiety. And, as anxiety levels increase, it’s common for individuals to focus less on their physical health, including neglecting healthy eating habits and indulging in unhealthy meals instead.
I completely agree! Food is an essential aspect of our lives, providing us with the energy and nutrients necessary to keep our bodies and minds healthy and functioning optimally. While unhealthy options may be tempting due to their delicious taste and convenience, it’s important to prioritize healthy eating habits and make balanced choices that fuel our bodies with the nutrients they need.
A healthy diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Eating a variety of foods from all food groups ensures that your body is getting all of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients it needs to function properly.
In addition to fueling our bodies with healthy foods, it’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes and be mindful of the types of foods we’re consuming. Eating too much of any type of food can lead to weight gain and health problems, while eating too little of certain nutrients can leave us feeling tired, sluggish, and irritable.
By prioritizing healthy eating habits and making balanced food choices, we can improve our physical and mental well-being and lead healthy and happy lives. And remember, it’s okay to indulge in your favorite treats in moderation, as part of a balanced and healthy diet.
Unfortunately, many individuals make excuses for not incorporating nutritious foods into their diet, often claiming that healthy options lack flavor. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are plenty of healthy meal options that are both delicious and easy to prepare, such as the Easy Pea and Spinach Carbonara recipe outlined below:
This dish calls for fresh rather than dried pasta, as it allows for a creamier sauce made from eggs. In fact, eggs are the foundation for creating a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and can be cooked in under 30 minutes.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 ½ tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (preferably whole-wheat)
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 8 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 (9 ounces) package fresh tagliatelle or linguine
- 8 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
- Start by boiling 10 cups of water in a large pot on high heat.
- In the meantime, add oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add breadcrumbs and garlic, cooking until roasted (around two minutes). Move breadcrumb mixture to a small bowl and mix with two tablespoons of Parmesan and parsley. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine six tablespoons of Parmesan, egg yolks, large egg, pepper, and salt.
- Cook the pasta in the boiling water for one minute, then add the spinach and peas. Cook for another minute or until the pasta is chewable. Drain and place in a large bowl, reserving 1/4 cup of water.
- Gradually add the reserved cooking water into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Slowly pour the mixture onto the pasta using a tong and toss to distribute well.
- Finally, top with the breadcrumb mixture before serving.
In conclusion, incorporating healthy meal options into your diet is crucial for maintaining optimal physical and mental health, especially during times where many of us may be spending more time indoors. By making simple changes, such as opting for fresh ingredients, we can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals that support our overall health and wellbeing.