Nice write up! I've always found it difficult to keep on top of diet (much more than exercise), so I've ended up using a collection of techniques / tools to stay on track, including a calorie-counting app, intermittent fasting, smart scale, a fitness tracker and macro-nutrient goals.

I also find actually inputting calories per meal helps me remain aware about food choices, while intermittent fasting (12pm - 8pm eating time) has drastically reduced snacking, because in those 8 hours I want filling / healthy meals rather than light (..dangerous) snacks.

I've never quite managed to routinely pre-prepare meals, now I'm inspired to have another crack at it.