Ready Meals: Had a couple of weeks off... - Weight Loss Support

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Ready Meals

natalie1990 profile image
10 Replies

Had a couple of weeks off dieting as I was on holiday but back on the weight loss plan I followed before. I was wondering if anyone could tell me if eating the quorn ready meals or healthy living ready meals are bad whilst dieting, as I find them convenient to take to work on occasions as I work odd hours and sometimes do not have the time to cook the day before.

Thanks

Natalie

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natalie1990 profile image
natalie1990
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10 Replies

I saw that quorn was mentioned by the nhs plan along with lean meats, etc. so quorn should be fine. I guess ready meals have both plus & negatives really, I would say that it was good because it controls your portion size and you know exactly how much fat, calories, sugar, etc, is in them. But the only thing I would say negative is that its not quite like making stuff homemade, as homemade stuff you know exactly what is going into it. If it fits your lifestyle though, I don't see why it would be bad for you.

natalie1990 profile image
natalie1990

Yea I agree with you thanks for your response really helps :)

Penel profile image
Penel

Perhaps it would be a good idea to check that you are getting the ones with the lowest sugar content.

natalie1990 profile image
natalie1990

I do check the labels and check fat content and calories but I'll make sure to check the sugar content as well

Hi natalie1990,

The problem might just that they are 'ready meals' and are therefore likely to be - to some extent - substantially processed, and very probably made down to a price, rather than priced up to a quality.

But, whilst I don't particurlarly advocate eating lots of highly processed foods, the occasional venture in that direction, probably isn't that big a deal.

And, you are sensible to carefully check out the labels for a better idea of what they actually contain, particularly in terms of sugar, fat, salt, etc.

hayley_86 profile image
hayley_86

I would also recommend reading the ingredients as well as the nutritional info. I work shifts a lot and I understand how difficult it is. Ready meals are not the best option but if it means you eat a meal and not end up with fast food then this would be the best choice. Is there anyway of cooking extra when you do cook and freezing them as a homemade ready meal?

fenbadger profile image
fenbadger in reply tohayley_86

I do that. I live alone - which has its advantages. Cook up 6 portions, eat 1 on the day and freeze 5. Do it at a weekend and you're never pushed for time, and I keep a variety in the freezer. All done in one pan on the hob. You lose a bit of flavour but no added fat - and you can get uncooked quorn in several forms - mince type - chicken pieces style etc.

How about a certain manufacturer's "Beanfeast" comes in portions for 2. Soya base. Once cooked, pop in a container with rice or pasta as appropriate, not bad for something quick at the point of eating - once cooked and cooled will microwave fine - but use a lid!

tootsiepops profile image
tootsiepops

You could make your own ready meals when you have time and freeze them. Guaranteed to be healthier than shop bought versions....

fenbadger profile image
fenbadger

True, I do that - no additives, no frying to brown meat etc.

Read the label. In the UK packaging must tell you what's inside. Quorn is noted for being low fat/high protein, ut as advised above please do look at those ingredients, and i'll bet the quorn product has the calories written somewhere obvious.

natalie1990 profile image
natalie1990

Thanks for all your responses it has really helped! I have got a tiny freezer in my flat which is a major pain but I can start making a couple of meals and freezing them! Do have any recipes that are good?

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