5 BIG Reasons Why You Should Pack Your Lunch

Packing your lunch might be just another task added to your already long list of things to do. But taking the time to bring your own lunch to work is well worth it. Here’s why:

1. Nutrition.

Of course this is numero uno! Restaurant foods and the restaurant environment top my list for reasons our public is struggling with obesity and health concerns such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Most restaurant foods are high in fat, cholesterol and sodium while falling short on some of the most important nutrients: fiber, vitamins and minerals. Proper nutrition is key to staying healthy. By packing your lunch, you have more control over your health.

2. Calories.

They're the culprit that adds inches to your waistline. Many restaurants are offering healthier choices and providing calorie information, but truly healthy, lower-calorie choices are hard to find when it comes to dining out. Combine that with temptation to veer off track while staring at the menu when you’re starving come noontime. It’s tough to stay within limits. Take your lunch to work, stick within your calorie goals, maintain a healthy weight.

3. Money.

Packing your lunch will save you money—no doubt about it. And I'm talking hundreds of dollars in cold hard cash! Think about it. How much do you spend when you go out to eat? $5 per meal? $10? $15? Multiply that times 20 (5 days per week times four weeks per month). Yikes! A packed lunch, such as a turkey sandwich, baked chips, a piece of fruit and some carrot sticks will run you about three bucks. You’ll be saving money you could spend on something else fun. Reward yourself! How about a shopping trip? New electronic? Running shoes? Or some cool lunch-packing supplies?!

4. Time.

Yes—packing your lunch will save you time. How? During your lunch break. Instead of having to spend time picking up lunch at the drive-through or waiting in line at the cafeteria, all you have to do is sit down and enjoy. Bonus: you just earned some relaxation time in the middle of a hectic day (or for the workaholics, more time to get the job done).

5. Energy.

How do you feel after indulging in a burger and fries from your favorite fast food restaurant? I’m willing to bet your answer is sluggish. That’s because higher fat, lower fiber foods slow you down and make you feel like napping. That's no good when you still have half a work day left! Swap that high-fat meal (and vending machine snacks) for something from home and you’ll be more efficient at work. You won’t even need that afternoon pick-me-up.

Are you convinced?

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