Meal Prep During Nursing School

MotoMonkey, BSN, RN · Jul 24, 2019

In school I never got too far into meal prep, I was never actually so busy that I didn't have time to cook a meal. I always seem to cook way too much at dinner, I was taught to cook by my mother who grew up on a farm and to this day cooks like she is feeding a farm crew. I would generally just portion out leftovers and take those with me to class or clinical.

I am not a big breakfast person, so often a cup of coffee is good enough to get me until lunch. But when I do want something in the morning I will often just make a protein shake, or have some yogurt with granola. If I am feeling fancy and want something hot I generally go for something like oatmeal.

If you struggle finding time to make breakfast in the morning I would suggest prepping everything the night before. That could include cutting up veggies for a scramble, or even measuring out your oats and liquid for oatmeal, what ever makes it dead simple for you in the morning.

Crash_Cart · Jul 24, 2019

I found it's actually pretty darn important to maintain your nutritional status during school.

Never write any exam on an empty stomach. Actual studies have shown people who skip breakfast have poorer concentration and more fatigue during class resulting in decreased academic performance. You need a lot of brain fuel so always eat a good breakfast. Make 10 minutes to eat something even if it's just a bowl of cereal and milk. Sprinkle some berries or raisins on it. Whole grain bagels are good. Bananas and yogurt is another quick breakfast.

Stay away from the drive thru's. Not only is it more expensive, but that kind of food has little benefit and will only make you feel sluggish during the day. Just pack along some trail mix, bananas, granola bars, cheese and crackers, yogurt, apples, whole grain bagels.

Foods with Omega 3 is also good brain food. Omega 3 deficiency can lead to fatigue and poor memory recall. You can find it mostly in different fish like canned sardines, but also in pumpkin seeds and walnuts. It's also available in the form of dietary supplements.

These kind of foods are easily carried with you to school.

babysplash, ADN, RN · Jul 24, 2019

ICONIC protein shakes, or something quick I usually bring a Nature's Valley bar - the oats and honey one is a favorite. I also brings nut and fruit bars I can buy in large packs from target, or an omega 3 blend of unsalted nuts. Also, I would take a 6-hole muffin tin and crack 12 eggs in a mixing bowl, then chop broccoli, spinach, tomatoes and onion (sometimes cheese or turkey sausage) then pour evenly into the muffin tins (makes 6 good sized ones) and bake for about 20 minutes. Then I would freeze them individually and let defrost in the fridge the night before - pop in microwave for 1 min then bring it with me and eat during my commute. I would bake 3-4 sweet potatoes on Sunday and usually bring one with me. I bring a screw-top shaker with garlic powder, cayenne pepper and cinnamon in it. Pesto is a good cold meal too - pesto on whole grain noodles or shaved zucchini with grape tomatoes, chopped broccoli, kale and (optional) diced chicken

Luchador, CNA, EMT-B · Jul 24, 2019

6 hours ago, JamieSch123 said:
Hey everyone,
I'm curious what you all do for meal prep during school/clinicals. I'm trying to get organized and I struggle to eat properly when I'm busy. How do you all plan meals? Breakfast is the hardest meal for me.
Thanks!

Get yourself a crock pot.

1. Put some dead cow, onions, garlic, potatoes and tomatoes and a can of beer in it when you leave for clinicals in the morning (you can chop up the stuff the night before and keep them in fridge.) Season with more salt than you think you need.

2. Turn on low when you leave.

3. Come home after a long day and enjoy!

P.s. For bfast just cram a breakfast bar down your gullet and wash it down with some Kenyan AA coffee.