Eating Healthy Lunches on the Go

One of the many reasons for adults and children to become overweight is the number of options available when it comes to eating out. There are fast food restaurants on every corner and restaurants offer so many choices of fried and fatty foods. The food industry is a big business Rather than home cooked meals a vast majority of the population either eats out or orders in.

Lunch is one such meal that can really be challenging, because you are often stuck eating on the go. You don’t have a lot of time because you have to get back to work and well you didn’t pack a lunch so you head out to grab lunch from the closest, fastest place. This usually ends up choosing a fast food or other not so healthy restaurant. Luckily, there are options for eating a healthy lunches on the go.

However, you are going to eat out from time to time, I get that. You will have business meetings, birthday parties, and more so sometimes it’s just a must. It’s time to make the routine of cheeseburgers and fries a thing of the past and opt for something healthier such as a salad with grilled chicken or a healthy grilled sandwich or wrap. Not only will you be on your way to weight loss, but you’ll feel better and more energized for the rest of the afternoon, rather than wanting to take a nap when you get back to the office.

A few tips to healthy eating on the go:

Pass on the bread basket or chips and salsa.  This can add up to too many calories easily.

Always choose grilled meats and avoid fried meats and foods.

Watch the condiments and sauces. Ask for sauces on the side for salads, sandwiches, and even your main course and whenever possible use low fat and low calorie options.

Ask for steamed veggies without the butter or a side salad rather than the side of French fries, loaded baked potato, or coleslaw which are all loaded with fat.

Drink water instead of calorie laden sodas, juices, and alcohol.

Watch portion sizes. Many restaurants bring out double or even triple size portions.  Make sure to stop eating, when you are full and get the rest to go.

However, I recommend eating out something you do only once in awhile. Save it as a special treat or a cheat meal. Pack your lunch whenever possible. This way you always have something available to eat, and can avoid tempting foods at the nearest fast food joint.

When you eat a healthy lunch, you will be less fatigued and more able to concentrate for the rest of the afternoon. Some great examples of items to pack include:

Chicken or turkey breast, tuna wraps or sandwiches

Egg whites

Lots of fruits and veggies

Salads with grilled chicken, hardboiled eggs, nuts, sunflower seeds, and veggies

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans (unsalted, uncooked, and no extra ingredients)

Pre-cooked sweet potatoes

Another benefit to taking your lunch is the savings, as restaurants can be expensive.

So remember there are options for eating healthy lunches on the go!