I totally used to think that preparing lunch was such a hassle, that I didn’t have the time, and so I would almost always end up just grab something on the go. However, most of the time I ended really disappointed with my rushed lunch choice, having to return to work even more stressed than before I sat down briefly to quickly scarf down my meal.

But then it dawned on me; that maybe if I prepared my lunch myself, I would actually enjoy this part of the day which is meant for a mid-day break from all the busy stuff and work going on. So I took the time and prepared lunch ahead. Now, lunch is my favorite meal because I actually have the time to sit down, relax, and enjoy my favorite foods.

The key to packing an awesome lunch is to plan ahead by:

1. making a shopping list of your favorite nutritious ingredients;
2. taking it with you when you go to the supermarket, and
3. setting aside time the night before to get everything ready. (If the lunch is for your kids, including them in its preparation offers the benefit of teaching them how to choose better foods.)

Some tips for assembling a healthy and enjoyable box lunch:

• Prepare a simple sandwich using whole grain bread, organic butter, mayonnaise, mustard or salsa, and a healthy protein source such as sardines, chicken or turkey, and additive-free, hormone-free cold cuts.
• Make sure to top the sandwich off with nutritious veggies, like spinach, kale, tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, sprouts, shredded carrots or vinegar-based coleslaw. They pack in a lot of vitamins and minerals while adding texture and crunch. For an extra boost, sprinkle on some flax or chia seeds.
• If you prefer, you can opt for an organic peanut butter sandwich instead – perhaps with some fruit spread (but be sure it’s free of high fructose corn syrup) or some goji berries, which are loaded with powerful antioxidants.
• Fill a reusable container with your favorite snack food, such as organic tortilla chips, nuts or granola (you may want to include an extra serving for a mid-afternoon snack).
• Include a salad or serving of fresh organic fruit.
• For a beverage, fill an environmentally friendly bottle with ice tea (that you brew yourself) sweetened with stevia or raw or organic cane sugar. A big savings over spending all that money for one at a convenience store! Or try some chilled almond or rice milk for something different.

Best of lunch to you!

Insight: Packing your own lunch gives you control over what you eat once you leave the house.