Lose weight with Healthy Lunches

Whether you’re participating in a medical weight loss program in Arizona or tackling your weight management goals on your own, you know that it’s important to eat a healthy lunch for your success. But a busy lifestyle, a tough economy, or boring sandwiches may make it more challenging to do so. Here are some recipes that are both good for you and your pocketbook, while adding some interest to your lunch time meals.

• Beyond the basic turkey wrap – Adding a touch of Boursin low-fat cheese to your turkey wrap adds a creamy texture to this deli favorite. For extra nutrients in this protein-packed wrap, add cabbage, carrots, plum tomatoes, and a hint of parsley and garlic. Add a side of fresh blueberries or raspberries and you will have a healthy lunch that’s a spin on the traditional turkey wrap.
• Mediterranean pasta and shrimp – This is great meal for the busy professional or parent because you can make it over the weekend and it will keep great in the fridge all week! The shrimp provides low-fat lean protein. Capers, feta cheese and olives bring out the flavor in this Mediterranean dish, while tomatoes give you an antioxidant boost. With less than 500 calories, this lunch time leftover will support your weight management goals. Be sure to use whole grain pasta!
• Salmon salad – You’ve probably heard once or twice that salmon is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which are heart healthy. Add red bell peppers to this salad, which are high in fiber, folic acid, and antioxidants. A couple of slices of cucumbers perk up the coolness of this salad.
• Black bean salad – Another protein-packed salad, a black bean salad infused with barley provides you with tons of fiber to keep you full and energized throughout your activity-filled afternoon. Cilantro and Monterey Jack cheese add a Mexican flair to this salad, while a pinch of red pepper flakes tack on some heat. Toss in some lycopene-laden tomatoes, and you have a healthy and inexpensive lunch.