Extension for Real Life

3 Kitchen Tools for a Healthy Lifestyle

When people think about healthier living, they often think they need complicated meal plans, detoxes, or quick fixes. But the truth is much simpler: a healthy lifestyle can start right in your own kitchen with simple tools and a positive mindset.

If you’re just beginning your healthier cooking journey, don’t overthink it. You don’t need a chef’s kitchen or fancy gadgets. Start with tools that make cooking easier, safer, and more enjoyable. In fact, I recently purchased a handheld citrus juicer, and I didn’t know that I could get that much juice out of a lemon.

Start with these essential kitchen tools:

1. Cutting boards
   It’s best to have at least two. Keep one cutting board for fruits and vegetables and a separate one for proteins. This simple habit helps reduce cross-contamination and keeps food preparation safe.
2. A quality knife
   A sharp, well-balanced knife saves time, reduces frustration, and helps prevent injuries. When you have a knife that works with you, you may be more likely to cook at home.
3. An air fryer
   Love crispy foods? An air fryer delivers big flavor and texture using much less oil. It’s a great tool for vegetables, proteins, and quick meals, especially on busy days. Try out our delicious and easy air fryer recipes.

Easy ways to make healthier cooking stick: 

1. Keep it visible
   Store tools (like your cutting board or air fryer) where you can see them. When tools are easy to grab, you’re more likely to use them. Don’t hide them away in a kitchen cabinet.
2. Prep once, eat twice
   Chop extra vegetables or cook extra protein to save time later in the week. Small prep steps make healthy eating doable.
3. Focus on progress, not perfection
   Every meal doesn’t have to be “perfect.” Consistency matters more than doing everything right.
4. Choose convenience wisely
   Frozen vegetables, pre-washed greens, and ready-to-cook proteins are all healthy options that can reduce kitchen stress.
5. Make it enjoyable
   Play music, involve family members, or try one new recipe at a time. 

A Note for Parents: Get Kids Involved

Let kids help in age-appropriate ways, like washing produce, stirring ingredients, or choosing which vegetable goes on the plate. Children who help in the kitchen are more likely to try new foods, build confidence, and develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Bottom Line: You don’t need a fancy kitchen; you just need tools that work for you. Healthy habits aren’t built overnight. Healthy habits are built one meal, one tool, and one small choice at a time. Start where you are, use what you have, and let your kitchen support your health.

Want more easy, nutritious meals and snacks? Download our Fold and Go Meals and Electric Pressure Cooker Recipes.

For additional tips and registered dietitian-approved recipes, be sure to join our MSU Extension Nutrition and Wellness Facebook group.