Tips for Packing a Healthy Lunch

Breakfast is arguably the most important meal of the day. However, many continue to skip it as they “are not hungry”, “do not like breakfast food”, or “don’t have time”. Then lunchtime rolls around, they are ravenous and are then forced to make a quick decision of what to grab from the cafeteria or local restaurant.

Skipping breakfast or consuming one loaded with processed ingredients and sugar leaves your body functioning well below optimal functionality. If you continue this pattern at lunch, by mid afternoon, you will come crashing down and want to crawl into bed, or under your desk, for a nap.

To avoid this daily downward spiral and feel your best, use the following tips to simplify the process of packing a healthy lunch.

Pack the night before

Work and school day mornings are hectic.  Pack lunch boxes the night before so you have one less to-do amongst all of the chaos.

Focus on variety

Some thought needs to be put into what you throw into that lunch box to ensure that it is a balanced meal with an array of nutrients. Be sure to include sources of protein, fiber, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables.

Quality is key

Skip the processed, pre-packaged convenience items like cookies, cracker, and chips. Focus on fresh ingredients that will keep you fueled properly through the afternoon.

Don’t forget the H2O

Dehydration delivers some really nasty symptoms, some of which are headache, dizziness, fatigue and lack of focus and concentration. Packing a frozen water bottle in your lunch works double duty, keeping your foods cool and providing the hydration you need when it is time to dine.

Plan for leftovers

When preparing dinner, plan to have some leftovers that you can pack for lunch the next day. This can be one of the simplest ways to ensure that you have a well-balanced lunch and saves time too.

Food Prep

Sundays are a great day to plan ahead for the week by preparing some food items that you can include in your weekday lunches. Spending a little time cooking extra protein and cleaning and cutting fruits and vegetables prior to lunch box assembly can make that process a little quicker and less stressful.

Employing some or all of these tips will help you establish a smooth routine for packing nutritious lunches that will keep you fueled throughout the day. Here’s to planning ahead, enjoying your lunch from home and feeling your best!

Do you have any tips that help you stay on track with healthy lunches during the week? Please share!