Lately, healthy eating has been very trendy and everyone is looking for tips on how to make their lunches healthier this summer. I've got a few tips up my sleeve to share with you!
1. Whole Wheat Bread Instead Of White Bread
Whole grain or whole wheat bread keeps all three parts of the original grain (germ, brain, endosperm). This bread contains more fiber and retains more vitamins and minerals better than enriched grains (ex. white bread).
2. Mustard Or Avocado Instead Of Mayo
Mustard is practically calorie and fat free which makes it a better option than mayo. Avocado is a healthy fat and so it is a better option than mayo as well (and it also tastes great!).
3. Whole Wheat Crackers Instead Of Saltines
Again, when given the option to go whole-grain, always take the opportunity!
4. Turkey Or Chicken Breast Instead Of Salami
Salami is a processed meat which contains a lot of saturated fat and sodium. A leaner and healthier option would be turkey or chicken.
5. Part Skim Mozzarella Instead Of Full Fat Cheddar
Part-skim mozzarella has added protein, calcium and various other vitamins. Other cheeses have a lot of added calories and fat.
6. Fruit Instead Of A Granola Bar
Although granola bars seem healthy, many have a lot of sugar in them. Fruit also has sugar, but it is natural sugar instead of added sugar.
7. Salmon Instead Of Fish Sticks
Fish sticks are definitely not the best option due to the added sodium. Choose a fresh fish instead.
8. Brown Rice Instead Of White Rice
Brown rice is considered a whole grain. It is also high in fiber, selenium and manganese.
9. One Ounce Of Dark Chocolate Instead Of Cookies
We all have heard the amazing benefits of dark chocolate. Now they are being sold in a perfect quantity that is just enough to replace the cookies and to satisfy the sweet tooth!
10. Air Popped Popcorn Instead Of Potato Chips
All the crunch without all the calories and sodium!
11. Tea Instead Of Soda
Make sure it is unsweetened so you don't take in all that sugar though!
12. Nuts Instead Of Croutons
All the benefits of nuts while still getting your crunch!
13. Romaine Instead Of Iceberg
There are more nutrients in romaine than iceberg!
14. Water Instead Of Juice
Water is the beverage of choice! No added sugars!
15. Balsamic Instead Of Ranch
There is not as much fat in balsamic as there is in ranch.
16. Packing Your Lunch Instead Of Buying Or Eating Frozen Meals
Packing your lunch the night before is always the best idea. Otherwise you'll be scrambling around the house in the morning trying to pack a lunch and end up grabbing the easiest things -- bag of potato chips, a couple cookies, etc. It is easier to take the time to chop fruits and vegetables for snacks or making a healthy whole grain sandwich the night before.
17. Add Instead Of Subtract
Don't think about what to subtract from your diet to make a healthier lunch. Think about what you can add to it! More vegetables or more healthy fats, perhaps?
Healthy lunches can definitely be a challenge! Hopefully by practicing these tips you will begin to feel better about your lunches and what you are putting into your body.
