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Galveston Diet Tips
Menopause often brings about unwanted changes, including frustrating weight gain that can be difficult to shake. If you’re looking for a dietary approach specifically tailored to the challenges of menopause, the Galveston Diet might pique your interest. This comprehensive plan focuses on intermittent fasting and an anti-inflammatory diet but doesn’t stop there. Pairing it with supportive lifestyle tools, such as sleep aids and meal prep essentials, can amplify your results. Let’s explore how it all works.
What is the Galveston Diet?
Created by OB-GYN Dr. Mary Claire Haver, the Galveston Diet is designed to address the unique challenges of menopause through two key components:
Intermittent Fasting:
- This involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. The most common approach in the Galveston Diet is the 16/8 method, where all meals are eaten within an 8-hour window and fast for the remaining 16 hours.
Anti-Inflammatory Focus:
- The diet prioritizes foods known to combat inflammation. Think fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats like avocados and nuts, and whole grains.
While these principles are the foundation, integrating lifestyle tools—like quality bedding for better sleep or meal delivery services for convenience—can make adhering to this plan more achievable. We also encourage people to grow their own fruits and vegetables at home because it’s a lot more cost effective, and they are free of pesticides which have been shown to cause cancer.
Galveston Diet Food List
Foods to Enjoy:
- Fruits: Berries, apples, pears, citrus fruits, bananas, melon
- Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, zucchini, asparagus
- Healthy Fats: Avocados, nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews), seeds (chia, flax, pumpkin), olive oil, coconut oil
- Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole-wheat bread, whole-wheat pasta
- Lean Protein:
- Fish (salmon, tuna, cod)
- Poultry (chicken, turkey)
- Beans, lentils, tofu, eggs
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Foods to Avoid:
- Refined carbohydrates: White bread, white pasta, pastries, cakes, cookies, sugary cereals
- Sugary drinks: Soda, fruit juice, sweetened tea, energy drinks
- Processed foods: Frozen meals, packaged snacks, deli meats, fast food
- Fried foods: French fries, fried chicken, doughnuts
- Excessive alcohol
Why the Menopause Connection?
The Galveston Diet stands out for its focus on the unique challenges of perimenopause and menopause. During this time, hormonal fluctuations often lead to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. This diet combines intermittent fasting to regulate insulin levels and anti-inflammatory foods to reduce inflammation, addressing some of the root causes of these changes.
Lifestyle Tools to Enhance Results
While the Galveston Diet focuses on nutrition, adding supportive lifestyle habits can amplify its benefits. Here are some practical tools to complement your journey:
Better Sleep for Hormonal Balance
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- Silk Pillowcases: Naturally cooling fabrics can improve sleep quality and reduce hot flashes. They also minimize skin irritation and hair damage.
- Cooling Weighted Blankets: Help you relax faster and stay asleep longer, promoting better energy levels.
- Sleep Masks: Block light effectively to improve sleep, especially for those struggling with insomnia or light sensitivity.
Kitchen Essentials for Easy Meal Prep
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- Knives for Meal Prep: Streamline your cooking with high-quality knives for meal prep! Perfect for chopping vegetables and slicing lean meats.
- Blenders and Spiralizers: Use a blender for quick smoothies packed with leafy greens or a spiralizer to create zucchini noodles as a low-carb pasta alternative.
Meal Services for Convenience
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- Protein Delivery Services: Busy schedule? A meat delivery service can provide hormone-free, grass-fed, and sustainably sourced options for your lean protein needs.
- Low-Carb Snacks: Stock up on nuts, seeds, and healthy fats to have quick, diet-friendly options on hand.
Potential Benefits of the Galveston Diet
While the diet’s primary goal is to address weight gain, it offers other compelling benefits:
- Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation contributes to various health issues. Following an anti-inflammatory diet may help mitigate these risks.
- Improved Hormonal Balance: Regulating blood sugar and reducing inflammation can promote better hormonal health.
- Increased Energy: Many people feel more energized with intermittent fasting and anti-inflammatory approaches.
- Enhanced Mood and Sleep: The diet can significantly improve your overall well-being when paired with better sleep hygiene tools like silk pillowcases and weighted blankets.
Getting Started
The Galveston Diet is about more than just food; it’s a holistic approach to wellness during menopause. Start with simple changes:
- Practice intermittent fasting.
- Focus on anti-inflammatory foods.
- Incorporate tools that simplify your routine, such as better sleep accessories and meal prep essentials.
Remember, small, consistent changes lead to lasting results. Listen to your body, find what works for you, and enjoy the benefits of feeling balanced and in control during this transformative stage of life.
Click Here To Download The Meal Plan
Why Carb Cycling Diets Can Change The Game
The Cheapest Grocery Stores by Region with Nationwide Options
These are the cheapest grocery stores in the United States by region.
Northeast:
- Aldi
- Market Basket
- Price Chopper/Market 32
- Trader Joe’s
- Wegmans
Midwest:
- Aldi
- Woodman’s Markets
- Meijer
- Cub Foods
- Hy-Vee
South:
- Aldi
- Food 4 Less
- Walmart
- Publix
- H-E-B (Texas and parts of Mexico)
West:
- WinCo Foods
- Grocery Outlet
- Food 4 Less
- Smart & Final
- Trader Joe’s
Nationwide options:
- Aldi: Consistently ranked as one of the cheapest grocery stores across the country.
- Walmart: Available in most regions and offers competitive prices.
- Trader Joe’s: Known for good value, particularly for smaller households.
- Target: Offers competitive pricing on many items, especially with their Good & Gather brand.
Membership-based options (nationwide):
- Costco
- Sam’s Club
- BJ’s Wholesale Club
Cheapest Grocery Stores Per Category
Category | Cost-Efficient Options | Recommended Stores by Region |
---|---|---|
Produce | Bananas, carrots, potatoes, seasonal vegetables |
|
Dairy | Store-brand milk, eggs, yogurt |
|
Meat and Seafood | Whole chickens, canned tuna, frozen tilapia |
|
Bakery | Store-brand bread, day-old discounts |
|
Pantry Staples | Rice, dried beans, pasta, canned tomatoes |
|
Frozen Foods | Store-brand vegetables, frozen pizza |
|
Beverages | Store-brand soda, bulk tea bags |
|
Snacks | Popcorn kernels, store-brand chips |
|
Household Items | Store-brand cleaning supplies, bulk paper products |
|
Personal Care | Store-brand toiletries, bulk soap |
|
For Those Looking For Healthy Options
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Meat delivery services are perfect for people who want to eat healthy but don’t have the time or energy to shop for the best quality meat. These services usually offer meat that’s way better than what you’d find at your local grocery store, like organic, grass-fed, and free-range options. The upfront cost might seem a bit high, but comparing the price per pound to similar options at fancy stores is pretty reasonable. Plus, you get a curated selection of different cuts delivered right to your door, which means less shopping and more time enjoying delicious, healthy meals. It’s also a great way to reduce food waste and stick to your meal plan, saving you money in the long run. So, if you’re serious about eating high-quality, ethically sourced meat, meat delivery services might be worth the investment.
It’s important to note that prices and availability can vary even within regions. Aldi, for example, is expanding rapidly and is now available in 39 states. Additionally, some regional chains like Wegmans or H-E-B may offer competitive prices and are highly regarded in their respective areas. For the best savings, consider these strategies:
- Compare prices across multiple stores in your area.
- Take advantage of store loyalty programs and mobile apps for additional savings.
- Plan meals around weekly specials and seasonal produce.
- Consider buying store brands, which are often significantly cheaper than name brands.
Mediterranean Diet Recipes – 30 Day Meal Plan PDF
The Mediterranean diet is focused on whole, nutrient-dense foods. It emphasizes fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, providing essential nutrients and antioxidants.
Moderate amounts of sustainably sourced fish, poultry, and dairy align with the preference for high-quality, pasture-raised, or wild-caught animal products, ensuring a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. Additionally, its reliance on local, seasonal ingredients mirrors regenerative farming practices, promoting biodiversity and reducing the environmental impact of food production.
Tired of wondering what’s for dinner? The Mediterranean Diet makes eating healthy simple, delicious, and now it’s even easier with ready-made meal plans approved by real nutritionists. Get started below 👇
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Mediterranean Recipes
Breakfast Recipes
1. Supercharged Greek Yogurt Parfait
Healthy Twist: Boost the protein, fiber, and antioxidant content.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt (full fat or low-fat)
- ½ cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for antioxidants)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (for omega-3s and fiber)
- 1 tbsp crushed walnuts (heart-healthy fats)
- 1 tsp raw honey (or manuka honey for immune support)
- Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon for added anti-inflammatory benefits
Directions:
Layer the Greek yogurt with berries, chia/flax seeds, and crushed walnuts. Drizzle with raw honey and sprinkle with cinnamon before serving.
2. Spinach, Feta, and Turmeric Omelette
Healthy Twist: Add turmeric for anti-inflammatory benefits and veggies for extra nutrients.
- Ingredients:
- 3 pasture-raised eggs
- 1 cup baby spinach, sautéed
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (choose sheep or goat’s milk feta for easier digestion)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (extra-virgin)
- ¼ tsp turmeric powder
- Black pepper (to enhance turmeric absorption)
- Optional: ¼ cup diced bell peppers or onions for extra vitamin C
Directions:
Whisk eggs with turmeric and black pepper. Sauté spinach (and optional veggies) in olive oil. Pour in the egg mixture, sprinkle with feta, and cook perfectly.
3. Mediterranean Avocado Toast Deluxe
Healthy Twist: Add protein and herbs for more nutrition and flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 slice whole-grain or sprouted bread (higher in fiber and nutrients)
- ½ avocado, mashed
- 1 boiled egg, sliced (for extra protein)
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3-4 black or kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp fresh oregano or basil leaves
- Optional: A sprinkle of hemp seeds or micro greens for added nutrition
Directions:
Spread mashed avocado on toast. Top with sliced boiled egg, cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs. Drizzle olive oil and optional toppings.
4. Herb and Olive Oil Scrambled Eggs with Veggie Side
Healthy Twist: Add garlic, herbs, and a side of greens for added fiber and antioxidants.
- Ingredients:
- 3 pasture-raised eggs
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Side: Sautéed kale or spinach in olive oil (for added greens and fiber)
Directions:
Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add eggs and scramble gently. Season with oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Serve with a side of sautéed greens.
5. Honey and Almond Power Oatmeal
Healthy Twist: Add more superfoods and healthy fats for sustained energy.
- Ingredients:
- ½ cup steel-cut or rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk (unsweetened)
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds (for omega-3s)
- 1 tbsp slivered almonds
- 1 tsp raw honey
- 2-3 fresh figs, sliced
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- Optional: A dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein
Directions:
Cook oats in almond milk. Stir in chia/hemp seeds, cinnamon, and honey. Top with slivered almonds, fresh figs, and optional Greek yogurt.
Lunch Recipes
1. Supercharged Greek Salad Bowl
Healthy Twist: Add protein and superfoods for extra nutrients.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cucumber, diced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup kalamata olives, halved
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (goat or sheep’s milk)
- ¼ cup chickpeas (for protein and fiber)
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds (for omega-3s)
- Dressing: 2 tbsp olive oil + ½ lemon juice, ½ tsp dried oregano, salt, and pepper
Directions:
Toss all salad ingredients together. Whisk the dressing, drizzle it over the salad, and top with hemp seeds.
2. Mediterranean Grain Bowl with Superfoods
Healthy Twist: Use a blend of grains and top with nutrient-packed veggies.
- Ingredients:
- ½ cup cooked quinoa or farro
- ½ cup roasted sweet potatoes or carrots
- ½ cup roasted zucchini and bell peppers
- ½ cup chickpeas, roasted or steamed
- 1 tbsp tahini dressing (tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water whisked together)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds (for magnesium)
- Optional: 1 tbsp crumbled feta or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option)
Directions:
Layer the cooked grains in a bowl, then add roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and parsley. Drizzle tahini dressing and with pumpkin seeds.
3. Protein-Packed Tuna and White Bean Salad
Healthy Twist: Add more greens, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory seasonings.
- Ingredients:
- 1 can tuna (olive oil or water, drained)
- ½ cup white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
- 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 tbsp capers (for added flavor)
- 1 tbsp hemp or chia seeds (for added fiber and omega-3s)
- ¼ tsp crushed black pepper and a pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Mix the tuna, white beans, arugula, and tomatoes in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil + lemon juice, then add capers, seeds, and seasonings.
4. Grilled Vegetable Wrap with Hummus and Supergreens
Healthy Twist: Add more fiber, protein, and a nutrient boost from microgreens.
- Ingredients:
- 1 whole-grain or sprouted wrap
- 2 tbsp hummus (preferably homemade or organic)
- ½ cup grilled zucchini and eggplant
- ¼ cup roasted red peppers
- 1 cup baby spinach or kale
- 2 tbsp microgreens or sprouts (for an extra nutrient boost)
- 1 tbsp crumbled feta or tahini drizzle
Directions:
Spread hummus on the wrap, then layer with grilled vegetables, spinach, and microgreens. Add feta or drizzle tahini on top, then wrap tightly and serve.
5. Nutrient-enhanced lentil Soup with Olive Oil Drizzle
Healthy Twist: Add anti-inflammatory spices and greens for more antioxidants.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp turmeric (anti-inflammatory)
- ½ tsp cumin (digestive aid)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (added toward the end)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Directions:
Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in olive oil until softened. Add lentils, turmeric, cumin, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Simmer for about 25 minutes or until lentils are tender. Stir in kale or spinach, season with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally add olive oil before serving.
Dinner Recipes
1. Baked Salmon with Lemon, Dill, and Super Greens
Healthy Twist: Add nutrient-dense greens and seeds for extra omega-3s and antioxidants.
- Ingredients:
- 2 wild-caught salmon fillets (skin-on)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp hemp or chia seeds (optional for extra omega-3s)
- Side: Steamed broccoli or wilted spinach
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and top with lemon slices and dill. Bake for about 13 minutes or until salmon flakes easily. Sprinkle with hemp or chia seeds before serving with a side of greens.
2. Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers with Extra Superfoods
Healthy Twist: Add anti-inflammatory spices and superfoods to the filling.
- Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (halved and deseeded)
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ½ cup chickpeas, cooked or canned
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix quinoa, chickpeas, tomatoes, feta, parsley, turmeric, and cumin. Fill bell peppers with the mixture and top with pumpkin seeds. Put in a baking dish, cover the dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
3. Eggplant and Chickpea Stew with Anti-Inflammatory Spices
Healthy Twist: Add turmeric, ginger, and greens for extra healing properties.
- Ingredients:
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Heat a large pan and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant in olive oil. Add eggplant and cook until softened. Stir in tomatoes, chickpeas, turmeric, cumin, and ginger. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, then stir in kale or spinach. Cook for another 5 minutes. Season to taste.
4. Grilled Lamb Chops with Tzatziki and Nutrient Boost
Healthy Twist: Use grass-fed lamb and add cucumber, mint, and garlic for digestive support.
- Ingredients:
- 4 lamb chops (grass-fed)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Tzatziki:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Juice of ½ lemon
Directions:
Marinate lamb chops with garlic, rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper for 1 hour. Grill on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side or to desired doneness. Mix tzatziki ingredients in a bowl and serve alongside lamb chops.
5. Whole-Grain Pasta with Supercharged Pesto and Veggies
Healthy Twist: Add walnuts for omega-3s and fiber, and sautéed greens for extra nutrients.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz whole-grain or chickpea pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup zucchini, diced and sautéed
- 1 cup spinach or kale, sautéed
- ½ cup homemade basil pesto (basil, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and walnuts blended)
- 1 tbsp hemp seeds or nutritional yeast (optional for vegan boost)
Directions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. In a large pan, sauté zucchini, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the pasta with pesto and vegetables. Sprinkle with hemp seeds or nutritional yeast before serving.
Why Choose a 30-Day Meal Plan?
A structured meal plan takes the guesswork out of what to eat daily, ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet that aligns with Mediterranean principles. It can also help you build healthy habits and make grocery shopping a breeze.
A 30-day timeframe provides a clear starting point and a manageable goal. It’s enough time to experience the diet’s benefits and see if it fits your lifestyle well. Don’t worry about feeling restricted—a good meal plan will offer variety and flexibility to keep things interesting.
Click to Download Your 3-Month Plan
What to Look for in a Mediterranean Meal Plan
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The perfect meal plan is the one that works best for you. Consider these factors when choosing:
- Variety of recipes: Look for a plan that offers a wide range of meals to prevent boredom and ensure you get a good array of nutrients.
- Flexibility for personalization: The plan should allow you to swap ingredients or adjust portion sizes to fit your preferences and dietary needs.
- Dietary restrictions: Choose a plan that accommodates any specific dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free).
- Clear instructions and shopping lists: The plan should provide easy-to-follow recipes and a detailed shopping lists or food list of what to avoid and what to look for.
- Alignment with Mediterranean diet principles: The plan should emphasize whole foods, plant-based meals, and healthy fats and limit processed foods and red meat.
- Your individual needs: Consider your calorie goals, time available for cooking, and budget when choosing a plan.
Where to Find Mediterranean Diet 30-Day Meal Plans
There are many resources available to help you find the perfect meal plan:
- Registered dietitians or nutritionists can provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and health goals.
- Credible health and wellness websites: Websites like EatingWell and Mayo Clinic offer reliable information and meal plans developed by experts.
- Cookbooks focused on the Mediterranean diet: Explore cookbooks dedicated to Mediterranean cuisine for inspiration and recipes.
You’ll find both free and paid meal plans online. Free plans can be a great starting point, but paid plans often offer more comprehensive resources and support.
Tips for Success with Your Meal Plan
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Once you’ve chosen a meal plan, these tips can help you make the most of it:
- Make a detailed grocery list: Plan your shopping trips around the meal plan to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients.
- Prep ingredients in advance: Chop vegetables, cook grains, and portion out snacks ahead of time to save time during the week.
- Cook extra for leftovers: Double recipes to prepare meals for busier days or freeze later.
- Track your progress: Keep track of your meals, energy levels, and feelings.
- Find a meal plan, buddy: Share your journey with a friend or family member for support and encouragement.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: If you are bored, swap out ingredients or try new recipes that fit the Mediterranean principles.
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