How to Start Your Nutrition Journey: Your Essential Kitchen Setup Guide

Jemma Billings

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Starting your nutrition journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, a few smart habits, and some go-to ingredients, you can make healthy eating a natural part of your everyday life. 

 🧭 Step 1: Plan Ahead with Purpose 

Meal planning is one of the most powerful tools in your nutrition toolkit. It helps you stay on track, reduce food waste, and avoid last-minute unhealthy choices. 

To make it easier, I’ve created: 

🍳 Step 2: Equip Your Kitchen for Success 

Having the right kitchen tools makes healthy eating quicker, easier, and more enjoyable. These are my everyday essentials: 

  • Digital kitchen scales – for accurate portion control 
  • Measuring cups & spoons – to get your macros just right 
  • Food processor – for smoothies, sauces, and prep: I love this kenwood processor for the power, quantity I can chop and mix and the longevity of the motor, however, the basic Kenwood model is great for starting out
  • Spatulas & knives – essential for cooking with ease, and getting all the yummy ingredients out of your pots and pans.
  • Chopping boards – keep things clean,  organised and hygienic
  • Tupperware – I love the Sistema 28pk containers for batch prep 
  • Glass jars - perfect for storing grains, nuts, making mason jar salads and food preserving.
  • Freezer bags - Ideal for freezing food portions, lunch prep, spices, trail mix snacking bags.
  • Lunch boxes and rucksacks - for meals on the go!

💡 Top Tip: Its worth looking at starter kits for your essentials as these could save you money overall like this - student bakeware set

 🥕 Step 3: Stock Your Nutrition Staples 

Keeping a few key ingredients on hand means you’re always ready to whip up something nourishing.

Here’s what I always keep in my kitchen: 

🥜 Pantry Essentials: 

  • Almond butter – I love Legends brand from Amazon 
  • Mixed nuts – Grape Tree Premium Mixed are my go-to 
  • Dried fruit – great for snacks or breakfast boosts 
  • Chickpeas & lentils – plant-based protein powerhouses 
  • Dates – naturally sweet and full of fibre 

🥦 Fresh & Frozen: 

  • Apples & bananas – easy, portable snacks 
  • Carrots & red peppers – crunchy and versatile 
  • Jacket potatoes – filling and budget-friendly 
  • Frozen veg – always ready when you are 

🍗 Protein Picks: 

  • Chicken, fish, tofu, steak – rotate for variety 
  • Eggs – a complete protein and breakfast hero 

🌟 Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent 

You don’t need to change everything overnight. Start with one or two habits - like planning your meals or prepping a few ingredients - and build from there. The key is consistency, not perfection. 

Remember: you’re not just eating to survive - you’re eating to thrive. 

 💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going 

What’s one tool or ingredient you’ll add to your kitchen this week? Tag me on Instagram I’d love to see your setup! 

And if you’re ready to take your nutrition to the next level, book your free 15-minute consultation  and let’s chat about how I can support your journey.

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