You probably know that the best way to take charge of what you eat is to prepare your meals yourself. That way, you control the ingredients that go into them — and into your body. Even if you're not an experienced chef, there are plenty of simple, healthy recipes that can help get you cooking (in fact, you'll find one in your in-box every Saturday from the Healthy Living With Ellie program!). Once you pick out a simple recipe, grab a pal or a family member to help you in the kitchen — there's no reason you should have to shoulder all the responsibility for cooking yourself.

When you bring your family into the mix you may be surprised at how much more quickly dinner reaches the table. Ask your partner to be your "sous-chef" and chop vegetables while you tend the stove. Or perhaps you can delegate certain tasks to your kids, like bringing you ingredients from the refrigerator, setting the table, or tossing a salad. Or if you prefer to do the kitchen work on your own, you can ask your spouse to help by stopping off at the grocery store to pick up any ingredients you need.

If you live by yourself, invite a friend over for a cooking party. An extra pair of hands in the kitchen may give you both the confidence to attempt a new or more complicated recipe.

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the idea of cooking dinner, break the task down into small steps that other people can help you with. The "big result" of a homemade meal will be everyone's reward.