Zero-Thought Meals Are the Nutrition Solution for Busy Guys


LIKE YOU, I’M busy. I have two kids, multiple entrepreneurial ventures, a full-time gig as a dietitian, and too many other things to list.

I also know that whatever my schedule is like, I can’t let my diet slip for too many days until I start to feel the consequences.

Which is why I turn to the life-saving strategy of “Zero-Thought Meals.”

A Zero-Thought Meal is a meal that I don’t really have to coook—more like assemble. It has a balance of protein, carbs, and fats, splashed with a palette of fruits and veggies for that vital nutrient kick, all hovering in the 600- to 800-calorie sweet spot.

What this looks like in practice: You’ve just crushed the last set or signed off on the final slide, and now it’s time to switch hats into that next goal but your energy is zapped and your day is far from over.

Because the last thing you need is another decision to make, it would help if you had fast nourishment, fuss-free, and a cinch to put together—right?

Here are some energy states that you’re probably familiar with—and the easy Zero-Thought Meals I tend to reach for when I’m there.

Scenario #1: “That workout wiped the floor with me.”

When in doubt, never underestimate a PB&J.

zero thought dinner

Dezi Abeyta

I’ll usually do an open-ended-faced PB&J: A nice dollop of crunchy PB, toasted sourdough bread from a farmers’ market and sliced banana or blueberries. Then I do a high-protein peanut butter shake on the side.

Scenario #2: “I’m done. I’m done both mentally and physically.”

A cheese board is always a great go-to.

zero thought dinner

Dezi Abeyta

Smoked salmon, hardboiled egg, two different kinds of cheese, Bitchin’ Sauce, chips, avocado or olives, jalapeño, and then some colorful fruit.

Scenario #3: “I have 10 minutes for lunch.”

I’ll usually go with a Perfect Bar, a handful of fruit, a trail mix with pumpkin seeds and almonds, and a high-protein, peanut-butter-forward smoothie.

zero thought dinner

Dezi Abeyta

ALL THESE MEALS are simple, delicious, and don’t require much thinking—a perfect replenishment after draining the tank.

These quick-fix feasts respect your time and cater to your post-battle fatigue with effortless nutrition. They’re the allies you didn’t know you needed, ensuring that your tank will be swiftly and deliciously replenished even when you’re running on empty. Here’s to conquering the chaos of daily life with the ease and certainty of a well-fed champion.

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Dezi Abeyta, RDN, is a Men’s Health Nutrition Adviser, author of Lose Your Gut Guide, and founder of Foodtalk Nutrition LLC.


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