Healthy meal delivery services, especially at this time of the year, are definitely on an uptrend. With so many brands available, it can be quite a challenge to choose the best healthy meal delivery service for you. Here’s a list to guide your decision making before you commit to a program:
1. Assess your daily food sources. If you’ve been getting most of your meals from fast foods or convenience stores (mostly processed) then it may be time to try a meal delivery service, which is healthier and more convenient. However, if you can systematically prepare your healthy home-cooked meals, then just continue with this excellent lifestyle.
2. Set your intentions. Define your current goals. Is it for weight management, for convenience, or to be more self-aware about healthy eating? You can try a delivery service for one whole week while assessing your energy level, over-all food taste, meal quality, and program sustainability. Then, you can decide if you wish to continue or simply use the experience to create your own meals and apply the program portions and quality.
3. Ask guidance from a health professional. If you have existing health conditions then it is best to undergo tests and consult with a health professional before you commit to meal service. Obtain clearance from your doctor and consult with a dietician if you plan to engage in specific diets (low-calorie detox, high-fat/low-carb, or high-protein/low-carb diets).
4. Always be flexible. Usually, meal companies offer five-day programs so always be prepared to be in control and independent in buying or preparing your off-program meals, so that even on weekends or while you’re on vacation, you can still continue your lifestyle change.
5. Keep in mind these factors in choosing the best service:
- PROGRAM CREDIBILITY AND SAFETY: Learn more about the experts behind the business. If you have health conditions and specific goals, look for services with nutritionists who can effectively create safe and effective personalized eating plans (considering health condition, allergies, special dietary needs) depending on age, current fitness level, physical activities, and goals. According to experts, safe meal plans should not go below 1,200 calories per day.
- YOUR EATING LIFESTYLE: Make sure that the meals to be delivered can match your eating schedule and routine. How many times a day do you eat? Do you eat snacks in between meals? Most services offer three meals with or without snacks.
- YOUR PREFERENCE: Ensure that you can get the satisfaction and food quality that you need from pre-ordered meals. Spend time to research on the food menu. Inquire if they can adjust to your food preference. Check if they have 24/7 support.
- YOUR BUDGET: Analyze your schedule and budget. How much do you usually spend on food in one day? If you allot P500, then look for meal services than can match your budget. Usually, meal prices range between P300-1,300/ day (they also offer various plans) and most services charge extra for deliveries.
- DELIVERY METHOD: Always consider accessibility and freshness of meals. Do you prefer to have your meals delivered every day? When is the best time for you to receive the meals?
- SERVICE REVIEWS: Ask recommendations from your friends, consult with health coaches, and read reviews about meal delivery service experiences.