January 31, 2014
So besides first breakfast and second lunch, FIRST lunch is the big meal I struggle with. Why? Because during the week I almost always eat out. Either to meet with staff or clients or to simply “get away” from same and have a little quiet time mid day. So I have really had to work on the structure of that meal and simply avoid those places that cannot fit my need.
So the basic structure I am working with for my lunch is:
- A lean protein – chicken or fish is best.
- A starch – rice or potatoes
- Fruit
- Veggies
- A Salad w/ low fat low calorie dressing
You might say, wow, that’s pretty small! Well, not really. Eat them in this order and I promise, you’re going to be fine…
FIRST – eat the salad. I use Balsamic vinaigrette, but there are others like that. I’m starting to expand. If it’s creamy or super insane yummy, skip it. No cheese and no protein here and skip the croutons if you can. We’re really after the veggies.
SECOND – Veggie – yeah this is tough for me because I cannot handle anything “cruciferous”. Makes me gag and want to puke. I’m not kidding – so that pulls out broccoli, asparagus, cauliflower, etc. So others cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, zucchini (some)
THIRD – the protein – just about any place you can order a fish and/or chicken BY ITSELF. Do it. If you feel weird, let the waiter/waitress know. Any GOOD one will totally work with you. If not, get the manager. ORDERING OFF MENU is not illegal.
FOURTH – Fruit – fresh fruit plate. Almost everywhere will have this for the folks who cannot have sugary desserts.
FIFTH – starch – right now I’m sticking to rice or potatoes – just make sure they’re not smuggling butter or lard or something, some places do that. If so, SEND IT BACK. You absolutely have that right.
Typically, the wait staff can put together your Protein, Veggie, and Starch into a single “entrée” but whatever this is not about cost as much as it is about eating right. If they charge you too much, ask to talk to the manager and make sure the waiter/waitress knows you’re not complaining about them, but about the way the restaurant set it up for you. The downside is… some places you just cannot get it all, especially in the Chicago winter. So I have to strike those from my list.
So there ya go!
What lunch ideas do you have? Share below!
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