With a little creativity and planning lunch at work can be quick and healthy. many people eat lunch at their work station and end up scarfing down convenience foods like frozen yogurt and dough nuts, barely tasting them. Come away from your computer even if it’s only for fifteen minutes. Take the time to focus on the meal you are eating. Swap sugary foods for foods that are better for taste and nutrition. If you really enjoy yogurt, try the creamy Greek kind and sprinkle it with fresh berries and nuts.

Pump up your protein to carry you through the afternoon. Toss grilled chicken with 1 cup of pasta to add up to the correct amount of calories. Protein is very important because it helps keep your blood sugar stable and you will feel full longer. Another option, if you are vegetarian, is to skip the chicken but swap white pasta for a high protein pasta, made from a blend of beans and whole grains. High protein pasta has 50% more protein and twice the fiber as traditional pasta.

To hold you until lunchtime you need a solid breakfast, eggs for protein or low fat cheese. If you don’t have time to cook, a bowl of wholegrain cereal with fruit and low fat milk is a perfect mix of complex carbs and protein. If lunch will be late a midmorning snack is a must. It will keep your energy up and appetite down throughout the day. Calcium and protein rich yogurt, string cheese, or a handful of dried fruit and nuts are good choices. They will keep you going and prevent overeating at the next meal.

Pack your lunch while making it for the kids. If you don’t have time mornings, do it at night. Make it easier by preparing the same lunch for everyone. Heart healthy peanut butter is a good protein choice for all. You can up the nutrition by using whole wheat bread and a sliced banana or apple in the place of jelly. Other choices are chicken or tuna salad, and ham and cheese on wholewheat bread. Add a sandwich bag of carrot strips, bell peppers or broccoli flowerets.

Tulan’s Articles:

http://healthmad.com/nutrition/what-do-your-kids-eat-and-drink/

http://gomesitc.com/family/aunt-almers-house/

http://gomestic.com/cooking/how-to-add-flavor-and-protein-to-students-vegetarian-diet/