lunch boX

forks & spoons

Eating Healthy this Summer... Anywhere!

By DanIEllE MIchEls

While Florida tends to experience more of an “endless summer” than most places in the United States, our school summer break still doesn’t reflect the actual length of the season.

This results in cramming all those summer family bucket list items into a small window with even less time to prepare for having healthy lunches on hand.

So if you’ve got a lot planned this summer, try these healthier on-the-go lunch options wherever your adventures may take you and your family.

aT The BallPark Although healthy options may be limited, the trick is taking what you have available and making it as healthy as possible. Hot dogs and hamburgers are classic fare, and if you get a burger with a whole-wheat bun, sans cheese, or a hot dog that is all-beef and non-processed, you’re making a classic a little healthier. When it comes to other popular snack choices like popcorn or a soft pretzel, you’re much better off with the lower-carb option of popcorn. Just nix the butter and opt for plain or lightly salted instead. Peanuts also aren’t a bad choice if they’re lightly salted, but they’re best in small quantities, so if you buy a bag, share it with someone else. And whatever you do, stay away from the nachos!

on the road Typical fast food chains don’t need to be the only options when you’re trying to stay on schedule toward your destination, but also need to fill empty bellies in the backseat. Stopping at a grocery store or sub shop to grab a sub sandwich with a wholewheat roll, lean meat and lots of veggies is a much healthier option. If the only thing in sight is fast food, almost every chain now has “healthy menu items.” The key to actually keeping these items healthy is limiting the extra toppings (candied nuts, extra cheese, croutons) and keeping dressing on the side. By adding those things yourself, or limiting those add-ons altogether, the healthy menu item you choose is probably a pretty good choice.

beach days Most beach food stands have the same sort of food that the ballparks do—delicious, but usually fried or filled with sodium. When finding a place to park or an area of the beach to camp out, choose a spot with some restaurant choices nearby with menu items like grilled chicken strips and veggie wraps. Order to-go and eat on the beach (but beware of seagulls) or bring a cover-up and sit down at the restaurant for lunch. Most dining places on the beach expect sandy patrons.

Of course if you’re looking to have a lunch as nutritious as what you can make at home, your best bet is taking time to prep and bring your own cooler of healthy foods. But if you find yourself ordering off a menu this summer, smart decision-making and a little swapping out can still keep your diet in check while enjoying your family’s summer activities. 

To insure good health: eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness and maintain an interest in life. -William Londen