These 3 Little Words Can Unlock A Healthier Approach To Eating

Instant noodles, mac and cheese and boxes of cereal are pantry staples for a few reasons — they’re relatively low-cost and they can be prepared in a pinch.

Though current diet culture leads us to believe that anything not cooked fresh or labeled organic is unhealthy, nutrition experts said that relying on packaged foods occasionally is not only realistic but isn’t so terrible, either — at least when it’s done mindfully.

‘Add, not subtract’ is the golden rule

The “add, not subtract” approach to eating encourages adding more wholesome ingredients like vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins into your snacks and meals, rather than restricting or eliminating certain items.

“As a whole, we — including nutritionists, scientists and health influencers — have scared people into believing that any food that comes out of a box or bag is ‘bad,’” said certified nutritionist and clinical dietician Kylie Bensley . “However, combining the worlds of both fresh and packaged foods can serve you well. As a dietitian, I incorporate packaged foods frequently into our family meals.”

Packaged foods aren’t just about convenience. They also offer the perk of enjoying your favorite fruits and veggies year-round. Plus, with portion-controlled servings, packaged foods can help reduce waste by preventing overbuying and spoilage of fresh ingredients.

The “add, not subtract” approach gives you the freedom to enjoy these foods occasionally without guilt or restriction. Cutting out certain foods can lead to feelings of deprivation, making you fixate on what’s off-limits, which often triggers restrictive eating and overwhelming feelings. By thoughtfully incorporating packaged foods, you can foster a healthier, more balanced relationship with