Ask an Expert: Maria, How Do I Find a Meal Plan Customized for Me?
Q: I'm an overweight 28 year old and I need some advice. I want to start eating healthier and in proper portions. The problem I run into is finding a plan that can be customized to what 'agrees' with me. My system can be sensitive to some foods and doesn't like mornings.
I live in a small town and don't have access to a dietician or nutritionist nearby. Is there a good place online to find a truly customizable menu plan that will help with portion control while still getting the nutrients I need?
A: There are a lot of sites that either have menus or offer to create menus, however, the question is who is creating them and are they appropriate for you, based on your needs, health concerns and your goals. You mentioned there isn’t a dietician or nutritionist near where you live. If there is a hospital in your community, then there should be a dietician at the hospital who you may be able to see with a referral from your family doctor.
He or she may not be able to create a menu for you, but could definitely give you advice. A place to start, check of the new food guide Based on your age, it shows generally how much you need, with regards to serving sizes and the number of servings from each group you should be having each day. It is balanced and will give you variety and a great place to start, however, depending on your health concerns, it may need to be adjusted for you.
As for online services, you can check out http://www.tommyeurope.tv/, which will have menus available, and my company http://www.urbannutrition.com/ can customize a menu specifically for you. Good Luck!