There’s nothing worse than coming home from a stressful day at work, or returning from a long run, to an empty fridge or pantry.  We all know that what we eat matters, but when we’re busy and on-the-go, the kitchen needs to be a place we can get good fuel when we need it, rather than a source of stress.

We often think of packaged foods as convenience foods, but with a little bit of prep and planning, real food wins on the convenience and health scale. I like to call it nature’s fast food.

The bottom line is: if you have good food in your kitchen, you will eat good food.  So, here are six of nature’s ‘fast food’ ingredients you can stock up on now – for meals that will taste delicious, give you more energy, and help your body rebuild and restore for tomorrow.

Quinoa

a complete protein grain high in B-vitamins, manganese, and magnesium.  Phytonutrients give it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and it’s an optimal recovery and post-workout food for active folks.

Greens

Fresh greens like kale, chard, spinach, and dandelion are high in calcium, vitamin A, C, E, and K.  They can be added to smoothies, soups, and casseroles.  Green powders are a dehydrated blend of greens, and are a good solution if you’re traveling or out-and-about.  Just add them to water or another beverage for a powerful dose of greens anytime, anywhere.

Maca powder

Known for its energizing and adaptogenic effects, maca is a great food for the endocrine and nervous systems.   It helps the body cope with stress, gives natural energy (without caffeine), and helps balance the hormones.  Add a teaspoon to your smoothie or cereal daily.

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are a small black seed that absorb 10 times their weight in water, forming a gel.  They are a great alternative to sugary, caffeine-loaded energy gels because they provide hydration, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and are typically easy to digest.  You can also sprinkle them on cereal, pasta, or salads.

Coconut milk

Stock up on cans of coconut milk to use in baking and cooking – for curries, cereal, or soups.  It’s a good cow’s milk substitute for vegans, and also high in anti-oxidants, vitamins B, C, and E.

Beans and Legumes

Lentils, black beans, garbanzo beans, and split peas are just a few of the dry or canned legumes you can stock.  For easier digestion, soak, rinse and cook dry beans, or simply rinse canned beans.  Add them as a source of protein to pasta, soup, or salad, or make them into a dip or spread.

Remember: if you have good food in your kitchen, you will eat good food. (CLICK to TWEET!)