Alexandra Dudley’s Cooking Tips & 2026 Wellness Habits

Pickles are on trend, fibre is sexy and the women in the know are all chasing a happy gut and the kind of energy that carries you from a morning gym session straight through to post‑work catch‑ups. Our Friday night martinis and weekend cinnamon buns are going nowhere, but we want the sweet treats plus the glowing skin. Nutrition is in for 2026 and this year we want it all. We’re going full fun while fuelling our bodies and living to the fullest. I’ve never been a fan of rules and regimes especially when it comes to eating; most of what makes us feel good comes from intuition but there are a few habits I try to incorporate into my daily routine to help me feel my best. 

Proper breakfasts are making a big comeback and protein is taking centre stage. It’s a buzz word and one that we’ve seen plastered on snack bars and ‘healthy’ food for years – but there’s science behind it too. By starting the day with protein and prioritising it early on, you provide your body with a source of amino acids to support everyday growth and maintenance of muscle mass. It can help make your breakfast more satisfying and set you up for the morning – and best of all, it doesn’t need to be complicated. A quick omelette with some veggies from your fridge, Greek yogurt or even  Sainsbury's On the Go Free Range Egg Protein Pot on your avocado toast are all great contenders. Plus, it’s easier now than ever to get your morning protein hit on the move, too. One of my go-tos is Sainsbury’s Protein Natural Big Pot Yogurt alongside its High Protein Berry Granola. If I'm short on time I'll have a pot of its Kefir Overnight Oats specifically the Raspberry and Vanilla flavour, which I like to add a handful of berries or some banana and I am good to go. 

For years, we had spiralised courgette with our bolognese, pretended cauliflower could replace pizza dough (it absolutely cannot) and did our best to avoid carbs wherever we could. Thankfully, we now know that carbohydrates are not evil. In fact, they are crucial to keep us feeling energised and making sure everything is happily moving. Slow releasing carbohydrates such as oats and brown rice are excellent fibre choices but there’s more to it. Seeds, nuts, lentils and peas are brilliant sources of fibre and bring diversity to our guts too. Whenever I am making myself breakfast or lunch, I try to ensure there are at least two elements of fibre. Sainsbury’s make it even easier with its grab-and-go options. I have a real soft spot for their new High-Protein Chicken & Grain Salad, which comes with a zippy red cabbage pickle and creamy romesco dressing, which has over 20g of protein and over 10g of fibre (a third or your daily recommended intake – adults need around 30g a day). If I'm out and about, their High-Protein Chicken Salad Sandwich is a winner and helps me stay energised on the go.