Brown-bagging it to work can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to stick to a healthy eating plan. With a little forethought and planning, however, you can purchase and/or prepare South Beach Diet–friendly foods that will travel well, taste great, and keep you on track wherever you are. These nutritious lunch suggestions are also family-friendly, so your loved ones can enjoy the same health benefits at home. Keep these ideas in mind for healthy on-the-go lunches:

1. Choose healthy breads. Keep your cupboards stocked with a variety of nutritious breads: 100 percent whole-wheat or whole-grain sliced bread, whole-wheat pita, and whole-grain tortillas are terrific options.
   South Beach Diet tip: Enjoy healthy breads beginning on Phase 2.

2. Enjoy lean deli meats. Choose lean deli meats like turkey breast, chicken breast, roast beef, and ham. Make sure you select varieties without added sugars (for instance, avoid honey-baked ham) and serve deli meats with South Beach Diet–friendly condiments like Dijon mustard and sugar-free salsa.
   South Beach Diet tip: Forgo the sandwich bread and opt for a roll-up with lettuce if you're on Phase 1. On Phases 2 and 3, use the bread options listed above.

3. Prepare a salad. Make a hearty Cobb or chef salad with dark, leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, reduced-fat cheese, turkey bacon, and/or lean deli meats. Divvy it up in separate containers for family members to enjoy on the go.
   South Beach Diet tip: Select a salad dressing with fewer than 3 grams of sugar per 2-tablespoon serving, or create your own dressing using extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar or lemon or lime juice, garlic, and fresh herbs.

4. Consider bean-based soups. Lentil, split pea, and black bean are nutrient-dense, fiber-rich, satisfying choices. The great thing about soup is that you can prepare a big pot on a Sunday and it will last you a few days into the week. Simply pack it in a thermos for travel.
   South Beach Diet tip: Opt for broth-based vegetable soups over cream-based soups, which are high in saturated fat. On Phase 2, pass over soups that contain refined carbs (like white rice or pasta) and concoct a homemade version using brown rice or whole-wheat pasta instead.

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