Whether you work full time or are home with other children, you may find yourself grabbing for a quick lunch. You know that nutrition is important for the baby, but you can’t seem to find the time to make a healthy lunch. Fortunately, a healthy lunch can be made in a short amount of time.
Leftovers from dinner can make a quick and healthy lunch the next day. It just takes a minute to set aside a portion in a container and stick it in the refrigerator. In the morning, you just have to grab the container on your way out the door. It can be easily reheated at work for a quick and nutritious lunch.
You can use some leftovers to make a healthy lunch. Leftover chicken, turkey or ham can be cut up and added to a salad for lunch the next day. Leftover turkey makes a great sandwich on whole wheat bread. You can always make the salad or sandwich before you go to bed to save you some much needed time in the morning.
Lunch meat is a stand by for many people. However, this is not the healthiest choice when you are pregnant. Lunch meat can harbor listeria, which is a bacteria that is dangerous for pregnant women. Limit your consumption of lunch meat. If you do eat it once in a while, be sure it is very fresh.
Shop at your local health food store for fast lunch ideas. You can find some ready to eat soups in a healthier version than what you might find in the grocery store. Try to include as many food groups as possible in your lunch. Choose whole grains, protein, calcium and fruits and vegetables. Drink milk or water rather than sugary drinks, iced tea or sodas.
If you are working all day, you will need to pack more food. During pregnancy you will feel hungry faster and will need snacks throughout the day. Pack a variety of quick and healthy snacks with your lunch to help ensure good nutrition. Some ideas for healthy snacks include fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, yogurt, string cheese, granola and trail mix. You can wash and cut vegetables over the weekend and store them in the refrigerator. You can pack granola or trail mix in individual baggies for the week as well. This will save you time in the mornings.
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