If your goal is to eat healthier in 2025, make sure that your kitchen is set up to support your goals. Organizing your kitchen in a way that promotes nutritious choices and minimizes unwanted temptation can make all the difference. A well-arranged kitchen isn’t just about appearances, but creating a space that fosters healthy habits and ease of use. Here’s how to organize your kitchen so that eating well becomes easier and more efficient. Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods Start by stocking up on nutritious, whole-food pantry staples. Nutrient-dense options used in everyday recipes like canned fish, dried grains and legumes, canned beans, seeds, nuts and olive oil should be easily accessible in your pantry. Keep fresh fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, dairy and dairy alternatives, as well as foods that are about to expire, front and center in the refrigerator. Not only does this make them easier to grab when you’re in a rush, but it also serves as a visual reminder to eat these wholesome options. Plus, prioritizing these perishable items will help cut back on food waste. Reconsider Snack and Dessert Storage Move highly processed snacks and sweet treats off counters and out of sight to help reduce the likelihood of mindlessly grabbing them when hunger strikes. If you prefer to keep these foods in the home, consider storing them in a separate, less convenient location such as a top shelf or the garage. This can help you make conscious decisions when you do choose to indulge. Use Transparent Storage Containers Invest in some clear storage containers to make it easier to spot your healthy go-to ingredients. Whether you’re storing fruit, veggies, cereals or leftovers, seeing exactly what you have on hand helps with maintaining an inventory of items on hand. For example, store-prepped veggies in clear containers in the fridge and store dry products like quinoa, brown rice and pasta in transparent jars. This simple step removes any guesswork, making it easier to grab healthy ingredients and restock when running low. Set Up Efficient Meal Prep Stations To make cooking and meal prep seamless, designate a specific area of the kitchen for preparing meals. Clear the countertop of clutter and keep cutting boards, knives and measuring cups nearby. Having the right tools readily available encourages cooking at home rather than opting for takeout. This may be the time to invest in tools that you’ve had in mind to make meal prep faster and easier such as a slow cooker, Instant Pot or blender. These small appliances can help you quickly prepare large batches of soups, stews, smoothies and more, allowing you to have nutritious meals ready quickly or even in advance. Create a Dedicated Snack Zone Snacks can be beneficial for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. Set aside a section of your kitchen specifically for better snack options like nuts, yogurt, crudité, hummus, unsweetened applesauce, turkey jerky, easy-to-peel fruit and string cheese. Nutritious snacks that are easy to grab will keep you on track with your healthy eating plan. Minimize Distractions Optimize mindful eating by limiting distractions such as your phone or television, especially in the kitchen and dining area. This will allow you to focus on meal prep and enjoying the experience of nourishing your body. The more intentional you are in the kitchen, the more likely you stay focused on your nutrition and meal planning goals. LeeAnn Weintraub, MPH, RD is a registered dietitian, providing nutrition counseling and consulting to individuals, families and organizations. She can be reached by email at [email protected]. Related Articles Things To Do | Bugs in your food? How to get rid of pest infestations in your pantry Things To Do | El Pollo Loco opens In French Valley Things To Do | When will California’s Great America close? 7 signs the end is near Things To Do | ALTer Ego Festival canceled amid Southern California wildfires Things To Do | Disney Imagineers who built Disneyland lost their homes in Altadena fire