It’s easy to walk into 2020 with mindful eating intentions; more plants, more organic, less sugar, less processed junk. Funny then, that when the munchies hit, self-control wanes. Here’s how to stay on track without cutting the snacks.
There’s a lot of food chat in the Green Is The New Black office: where are the best vegetarian restaurants? Who’s doing Veganuary? And what the hell is ashwagandha? As we roll from one year to the next, it’s the perfect opportunity to revisit our relationship with food, and in particular, snacking. Because it’s in those moments of weakness that mindful eating habits go out of the window, and mindless snacking to sneak in.
Mindful eating? Say what?
What do we mean by mindful eating? Science can take it to the extreme, to the point where it’s plain overwhelming. Formulating an eating plan taking age, weight, and gender into consideration, counting macros and calories, and monitoring every single mouthful isn’t our idea of fun. Once you add work, and well, life into the equation, it’s also unrealistic for your average human to maintain this kind of lifestyle transformation. Thankfully there are a few simple principles that are easy to incorporate into any daily routine. And it’s this approach that will be guiding our eating habits in 2020.
Firstly, we’ll be making a conscious choice to consume foods that are nutritionally healthy over comfort eating. Sounds like a no-brainer, but easier said than done, which is why a bit of planning and keeping healthy snacks close by is critical. Secondly, we want to know where our food is coming from, what’s in it, and how it was grown or produced. Taking it back to basics, consuming whole plant-based ingredients, and moving away from overly processed junk makes sense (for your body, and the planet). Finally, eating only when our bodies tell us to will (hopefully) help prevent mindless scoffing. And if you aren’t a whizz at cooking or don’t have the brain space to plan, you need to know about The Whole Kitchen.
Specialising in gluten-free bread, baked goods and snack products, The Whole Kitchen makes mindful eating a breeze. Everything it creates is 100% natural, low in sugar and gluten-free and most importantly – delicious. They also cater to vegan, grain-free, dairy-free and organic ways of eating, and have also just become Halal certified. Next time you hear your cravings call, keep your snacking conscious with one of these pretty darn tasty treats.
For when you hit the mid-afternoon slump: energy pearls
If coffee isn’t an option, say hello to energy pearls. We think of them as an upgraded and bougie sister to energy balls, and we turn to them for an extra kick in the afternoon. These energy pearls are raw, wholesome bite-sized balls of energy that are a perfect low sugar boost or pre/post-workout snack. They are all-natural, gluten-free, low sugar, vegan, dairy-free, paleo-friendly, high protein and high fibre (every single box, ticked!). Our favourite flavours include coconut cardamom and choc cherry, but they also come in peanut sesame, hazelnut cacao, and espresso orange. Yum.
For when only savoury will do: gluten-free sourdough
If you haven’t got a sweet tooth (or have an extra avocado that needs smashing), a gluten-free sourdough is super for curbing a carb craving. The 7 Super Seed Mix of white and black chia seeds, black and white sesame, brown linseed, golden flaxseed, sunflower seeds. The super unique loaf, which is their most nutritious and popular bread, is also made from premium flours that are naturally gluten-free, fermented overnight and then baked to give it a golden crust for a soft chew. And it’s highly addictive. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
The Whole Kitchen buckwheat sourdough starter also has a nice story. It was created in 2016 and, although the bread wasn’t in its first product range, the team created the starter, feeding and nurturing it every single day to create more beautiful nutritious bread.
For when you just need chocolate: salted chocolate cake
Salted. Chocolate. Need we say more? It’s a new item we’ve recently discovered and suffice to say; it’s become a firm favourite. Made with an almond meal base, organic raw cacao and choc almond butter ganache, and dusted with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes, this is as close to guilt-free indulgence at it comes. Unlike traditional cakes, it contains no refined flour and no refined sugar, and is high in antioxidants and healthy fats. Not just for dessert, the sweet and savoury chocolate cake is perfect for any occasion (even breakfast, don’t judge us).
For when you’re feeling fruity: gluten-free lemon coconut muffins
Looking for a more conscious choice for elevenses? Say hello to these genius lemon and coconut muffins. The Whole Kitchen muffins are soft, light, moist, low in sugar, and gluten-free. And they’re made using only premium natural ingredients like ground almonds, coconut flour, real coconut chips, and fresh lemons. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a mid-morning cup of tea.
For when you get peckish on the go: rock salt rosemary nut mix
Grab a bag of these and keep them in your purse so you’re never caught short on the go. Of all the various nut mixes The Whole Kitchen offers, it’s this flavour combo we can’t stop grazing on. Heck, we’ve been known to finish a full bag in one sitting. The super-simple snack is a delicious mix of premium nuts baked with fresh rosemary, olive oil, and Himalayan rock salt. Top tip: give the bag a good shake before diving in.
For your first snack of the day: pecan coconut grain-free granola
If one of your resolutions this year is to eat less sugar, this granola has got your back. Good for any meal of the day (or snack in between), this pecan coconut grain-free granola comprises a nutrient-rich blend of nuts, seeds and coconut chips and is sweetened purely by cinnamon. Best enjoyed with a dollop of coconut yoghurt and fresh mango. You’re welcome.
For details on how to order as well stocklists and catering needs — or to stay up-to-date with all the new products they have coming in soon — head to the Whole Kitchen website here.
