Lunch can be one of the most complicated meals when trying to lose weight. Lunch often sneaks up on us when we are our busiest. We may be out running errands or in the middle of a hectic day at work.
When hunger strikes, it is easy to grab something on the go. This usually means making unhealthy choices to satisfy our sudden hunger and can quickly derail our good intentions to follow a healthy diet. This is why meal prep is crucial to staying on track. When we prepare our meals ahead of time, we always have healthy and nutritious food on hand when we need it.
When preparing meals for your lunches, it is essential to keep a few key points in mind:
- Lunch meals should be healthy and full of nutrients. This will give you energy to power through your busy afternoons.
- Lunches should be easy to pack and carry with you.
- Lunch meals should be easy to eat on the go.
By considering these things and investing a bit of time once a week to prepare your meals, you can ensure you are always eating healthy meals at lunch.
Here are eight lunch meal prep ideas for weight loss:
Idea #1: Bento boxes
A bento box is a Japanese-style lunch box. These containers are separated into different sections, and each one is filled with a portion of different food. While these work perfectly for a delicious sushi lunch, you can make a bento box with any foods you like! Bento boxes are perfect for helping you with portion control, making them an excellent lunch meal prep idea for weight loss.
Consider filling your bento boxes with fresh fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds, protein, and whole grains. You can make these up ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and grab one as you head out the door.
Idea #2: Mason jar salads
Mason jar salads are all the rage on social media, and for a good reason! These salads are easy to make and can be stored in the fridge for days. To create one of these masterpieces, simply start with your salad dressing, layer in your salad ingredients, and top with your greens. When ready to eat, turn the mason jar upside down and shake it to mix it up. All you need is a fork to enjoy!
Idea #3: Meal plan delivery service
If you want to save time and still eat healthy, wholesome lunches, a meal plan delivery service can help. Having pre-selected meals delivered right to your home can ensure you always have healthy food on hand when you need it. Meal plan services like Meels use wholesome and nutritious ingredients. They can create meals that align with your health and fitness goals.
Idea #4: Protein snack packs
Protein snack packs will help fill you up, but they will help you build muscle. Consider adding nuts, peanut butter, boiled eggs, jerky, cubed tofu, or sandwich meats. Along with these, you can add cheese, crackers, veggies, or fruit.
Idea #5: Smoothies
One of the most convenient meals to take on the go is a smoothie. These drinks are packed with a whole assortment of nutrients, and they are thick and filling. Select your favourite frozen fruit, add some kale or spinach, and blend with milk, water, or a dairy substitute. To make your smoothie even more satisfying, you can add quick oats or protein powder.
Idea #6: Burritos
Spice up your lunch with the flavours of Mexico. A burrito is a fast and easy lunch that you can make ahead of time and grab when you are hungry. Simply fill a soft tortilla with lettuce, veggies, refried beans, salsa, cheese, and other toppings. This easy-to-eat meal will keep you full and packs a nutritious punch without extra calories.
Idea #7: Lettuce wraps
For even fewer calories, replace your soft tortilla with a lettuce wrap. Using large lettuce leaves makes for the perfect wrap, and you can top them with any of your favourite veggies and fillings. By cutting out the bread, you are removing added calories which will help you reach your weight loss goals faster.
Idea #8: Buddha bowls
If you are looking for a healthy, nutritious, and delicious lunch, Buddha bowls are for you. These bowls contain a base of either grains or greens and are topped with various wholesome ingredients. Consider making a Buddha bowl with rice, avocado, chickpeas, and fresh veggies. You can also make a salad Buddha bowl with fresh greens, nuts and seeds, sweet potato, and your favourite protein. Drizzle your favourite dressing or spread and eat up!
Losing weight shouldn’t be difficult. By consistently making healthy food choices and always being prepared for when hunger strikes, you can ensure you are meeting your nutritional goals. Preparing healthy lunches and bringing them with you when you’re on the go will keep you on track. You will save money from eating out and always have something delicious on-hand to satisfy your cravings.