Even for the most dedicated dieter, lunch time often presents a challenge. It’s easy enough to avoid temptation in your own home, if you’re able to eliminate the stockpile of junk food in your pantry. Breakfast and dinner become a snap, once you’ve learned appropriate nutrition rules… But lunch is a whole other story. There are vending machines in your building, co-workers are bringing treats, packing a lunch takes time and effort, and everyone invites you to the pizza joint down the street. Packing your lunch isn’t as easy as you once believed it would be!

It doesn’t have to be so difficult. Follow these simple guidelines to make lunch planning a bit easier, and you’ll be able to stay on your weight loss plan even in the face of difficulty and temptation.

Get the right stuff. Bento boxes are a fun solution, because you can keep all of your ingredients fresh and separate. There are also special salad containers on the market, that keep your lettuce and dressing separated until it’s time to eat. When your food tastes better, you’re less likely to ditch it and run off to get pizza with your coworkers.

Pack it up during dinner time. If you’re cooking a healthy dinner, double the recipe and pack up the extras as soon as the meal is ready. Tomorrow’s lunch is done, and you don’t even have to think about it the next morning.

Subscribe to a meal delivery service. These services deliver the right amount of ingredients, along with simple instructions, so you can cook healthy, delicious meals without the fuss of planning and shopping. Since they all deliver servings portioned for two people, these services are a great idea for singles who want to eat healthier without the time investment. Then, of course, all you have to do is pack up your leftovers for work the next day.

Keep your favorite condiments on hand. Packing lunch can be a pain when you have to remember four or five different things. And no one enjoys their favorite foods quite as much without the “right” condiments. Make it easier on yourself by keeping dressing, hot sauce, and other ingredients in the work refrigerator (or at your desk, if Martha from accounting keeps stealing your Ranch).

Start a club. There’s nothing like a little social pressure to keep you dedicated to your weight loss goals. If a few other coworkers are trying to lose weight or save money, start a lunch group with them. Each of you can bring something to contribute to a fresh, healthy meal. It’s easier on everyone, and you’re more likely to stick to your weight loss plans.

Of course, you need expert nutritional advice before you can formulate an effective weight loss plan! Call us for an appointment, and we will discuss your weight loss goals and help you decide upon a nutrition plan that works for you.