Meal planning1 min read
Meal planning for couples with different goals
One wants to lose weight, the other wants to build muscle. How to cook one meal that works for both of you.
Couples often share meals but not goals. One person might be trying to lose weight while the other wants to gain muscle, or one is vegetarian and the other isn't. Cooking two separate dinners every night isn't sustainable.
Cook one base, adjust the portions
The easiest approach is the same meal with different portions. Both people eat the same balanced dinner, but:
- The person losing weight has a larger portion of vegetables and a smaller portion of rice, pasta or bread
- The person building muscle has more protein and carbs
Add-ons and toppings
Serve extras separately, so each person can customise:
- Cheese, avocado, nuts and dressings on the side
- An extra portion of protein for one plate
- A side of rice or bread for one person
Different diets
If one of you is vegetarian, make vegetarian the default and add meat or fish for the other separately. Beans, lentils and tofu work for both.
Agree on the basics
Choose recipes you both enjoy, plan the week together and share the cooking. Meal planning works best when both people are invested.
Plan it together
In Mealful, you can adjust servings for each recipe, and the grocery list combines everything into one shop. Plan with the goal of the person needing more, then portion to suit.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or specific dietary needs, talk to a doctor or registered dietitian.
