Packaged diet foods can make portion control and food preparation easier. There are a number of packaged food diet programs, such as Jenny Craig and NutriSystem, or you can create your own using foods purchased in your local grocery store. Creating your own packaged food diet may be a more flexible and more affordable option.
Types
Packaged diet meals can be packaged in shelf stable packaging, canned or frozen, depending upon the brand and retailer. Meal options include breakfast, lunch or dinner entrees, snacks and desserts. Most are warmed in the microwave, but some can be heated in the conventional or toaster oven if you prefer. Meal replacement products, such as shakes, may fit into a packaged food diet, according to EveryDiet.org.
Function
Prepared foods are ideal if you lack the time or inclination to cook. Diet foods allow you to stick to your diet without spending hours in the kitchen. If you struggle with portion control, prepared foods are pre-portioned and calorie controlled. Many packaged foods are easy to carry or even store in the office freezer or your desk. You may find that including packaged meals in your diet can help you to stay on target when counting calories and fat.
Size
Most packaged diet meals contain 200 to 400 calories, depending upon the meal you choose, with many packaged diet meals containing around 300 calories per serving, according to Good Morning America. Prepared diet foods are low in fat, but may be moderately high in sodium. If you choose a higher sodium diet meal, balance it with less sodium throughout the day, aiming for a total intake of 1500 to 2300 mg of sodium each day, depending upon your age, recommends ThatsFit.com.
Considerations
While packaged diet foods are a good beginning to a calorie and fat controlled diet, these meals alone may not have adequate calories or meet your nutritional needs. Round out your diet meals with fresh fruit, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, recommends CBSNews.com. Add a cup of low-fat yogurt to a vegetable stir fry or have an orange and broccoli with your macaroni and cheese for a well rounded and adequate meal.
Features
You can purchase your own packaged diet foods at the grocery store or opt for a food delivery service. Several well known diets include packaged food, while smaller services may deliver higher quality frozen foods, according to EveryDiet.org. Customized packaged food plans for seniors, diabetics or vegetarians are available from some diet retailers, or you may be able to choose each meal to develop a plan that suits your tastes.
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