The first week of January is prime resolutions time! And what is a better resolution than something that benefits both your health and budget? Resolving to pack your lunch each workday, rather than relying upon restaurant food, is one of the best ways to support your weight loss plan and also save quite a bit of cash.

If that sounds like a plan you’d like to follow, check out these five tips for packing a healthy lunch that won’t get boring.

Invest in the right supplies. Divided containers, like Bento boxes, help you learn to portion your food. They’re also visually attractive, which can contribute to feelings of satiety. Choose travel silverware, drink cups, and small containers for dips or dressings, and you’re all set to pack exciting and varied lunches for every day of the week.

Eat seasonally. Check out your local farmers market or focus on grocery store sales. When fruits and veggies are in season, they are likely to be fresher because they’re grown closer to home. That means they are picked at peak ripeness and spend less time on trucks and shelves, so their nutrient profiles have not yet degraded. Plus, you’ll save money by shopping this way.

Vary your color palette. Including fruits and veggies of different colors will make your meals look more appealing, and therefore boost feelings of satisfaction. But you’ll also reap the benefit of a greater variety of nutrients when you eat this way.

Focus on both tastes and textures. You will naturally feel inclined to focus on foods whose flavors you enjoy. But texture is also a big part of each meal. Include items of different textures and you will find that you feel more satisfied by your lunches.

Mix your nutrients correctly. Make sure to include protein in your meals, because it helps you feel full for much longer. Pair complex carbs for energy and a bit of healthy (unsaturated) fats for flavor, and you can create a meal that is both satisfying and supports your weight loss plan.

Speaking of your weight loss plan… if you need help devising an eating strategy, give us a call. We can help you set goals and offer the support you need along the way.