Microwave meals

ava33
ava33 Posts: 26
edited October 4 in Food and Nutrition
Hello all,

ever since I've started to count calories I've pretty much relied on microwave meals for lunch and dinner (here in the UK we have M&S Count on Us, Tesco Light Choices and so on), a) because I'm working full time, studying part time and with trying to fit in the gym there's just not a lot of time for proper cooking, and b) because it's so convenient with the calories nicely written on the package, no measuring or counting needed.
It also helps me with portion control - I'm a big eater if I cook myself, which I believe is why Slimming World didn't work out for me, just too many "free" foods".
I eat fruit and salads as snacks throughout the day, not always 5 portions but at least some every day.

So what I'm wondering is just if I get enough nutrients this way or if I'm doing any damage to my health? Has any one dieted with microwave meals and can tell me their experience?

Thanks!

Replies

  • talk2tiff
    talk2tiff Posts: 42 Member
    BUMP! Hi Ava, I eat alot of Weight Watchers stuff, nearly every dinnertime i have WW ready meals for the same reason as u :o/ I wld like 2 know ppls experiences too!
  • Nechsma
    Nechsma Posts: 2
    I don't suggest it because of the extremely high sodium used to "preserve" the meals. I can't say I have tried it, but because that itself is a concern. I am sure you are choosing healthier meals so that would be a plus. Portion control is a big deal so at least you are on the right track.Wish you well!
  • ava33
    ava33 Posts: 26
    Hm, thanks for your feedback, I think I'll just see how I feel with it, it's only been a couple of weeks. I've just added sodium to my diary and haven't exceeded the daily limit ever so on that front it can't be that bad.
    On we go ;-)
  • talk2tiff
    talk2tiff Posts: 42 Member
    Thats what i did too. Can only see how it goes. I'ive lost over 3 stone in about 3 mnths like this with the help of mfp. I feel ok & i'm sure it can't be as high sodium intake as before (all those crisps etc cldn't have been good lol). Good luck x
  • LoserMom_3
    LoserMom_3 Posts: 23
    I'd be concerned w/ sodium as previously discussed... I would probably add at least 3-5 more glasses of water to compensate for the added sodium, and double check your recommended sodium allottment.
    Keep adding in lots of fresh veggie and fruits as well.
    I understand time contraints, I have 3 kids, work 40+hours / weekly, just graduated school and go to the gym 4 nights/week. I prepare meals in the crock pot (./slow cooker), make sandwiches, and cook in bulk and freeze to eat at a later time..... You will still get microwaved meals for your convenience, but it will be much much much healthier. Worth a try.
  • liftingbro
    liftingbro Posts: 2,029 Member
    I think they are OK so long as you balance the sodium out the rest of the day. Most of the good ones have a decent nutrition profile.

    Look for ones with 20+ grams of protein, and less than 45g of carbs.
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