Happy #NationalMakeLunchCountDay! Bringing your lunch to work and school is a trend worth tapping into today and throughout the year. Here’s why:

1- THIS RECIPE:

Two Ingredient Chocolate Overnight Proats recipe. Yep, you read that right! Only two ingredients, chocolate, and loads of protein! These overnight oats are perfect for on the go snacking, or if you’re the type that eats breakfast at your desk. They’re packed with all the nutrients you need to start your day off energized and full while feeling like a decadent treat before work. For us, the biggest bonus of keeping lunch super simple? It gives extra time to get outside for a walk or run, or maybe even take in a yoga or spin class. Consider what you can accomplish on your lunch break that has nothing to do with work and everything to do with you!

2- Save money

Studies show that the average take out meal cost $10. So if you’re the type of person who hits their favorite fast-casual joint for lunch everyday, you could be spending $50 or more per week on food (and don’t forget about the tip)! Try setting aside some time and make your own healthy and inexpensive meals at home. Need some inspiration in the kitchen? Try any one of Ambitious Kitchen lunchtime recipes that you can prep at the beginning of week and enjoy all the way through till the weekend. Mason jar salads, decadent sandwiches, and wraps that would make your local deli jealous. Ready to drink shakes are another great-tasting option with all of the nutrition your body needs. The more variety the better, just remember to keep it clean and healthy.

3- Eat cleaner

Packing your own daily lunches gives you the peace of mind to know  exactly what you’re eating. Store bought, frozen, and fast food lunches are often loaded with preservatives, high in fat and sugar, and include ingredients that you may not even know how to pronounce. By preparing your own meals, dressing, and even sweet treats, you’re saving yourself from choosing unhealthy options on the fly.

4- Know where your calories come from

When you pack your own lunch you have a clear understanding of where your calories are coming from. For those of us who are trying to maintain or reach a healthy weight, preparing your own snacks and meals is important. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and nutritious addition to your afternoon snacking why not pair your favorite veggies or pita chips with our Supergreens Hummus recipe. With the added serving of vegetables from the zucchini and protein packed chickpeas, you’ll never want store-bought hummus again. Need a substitute for that sweet, vending machine chocolate bar? Try our Chocolate Chickpeas recipe! It’s a sweet and savory alternative that provides an extra dose of daily fiber and can help curb that mid-afternoon sugar craving.

5- Save time

Setting aside time to meal prep can seem daunting, but it saves hours over the course of your week. Grab your friends, family, or significant other and pick one day a week to plan out and prep your breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day. Although it may seem like a lot of work at the time, being able to come home at the end of long day and throw together a hearty salad without having to think about it’s ingredients or heat up a delicious and nutrient packed soup makes life a lot easier. Meal prepping doesn’t have to be a huge ordeal, either. If you’re the type who would rather make double the dinner so lunch is a no brainer for tomorrow–that works too! If you’re looking for more tips on how to meal-prep like a pro and skip the lunch line check out our Springtime meal prep tips.

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