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Okay, okay, we know how this sounds. Are you going to tell me to start eating puréed jars of vegetables during my lunch hour?

Of course not, dear reader, that would be a little bit insane.

What we hope to share with you, however, is an effective way to eat your food groups throughout the day, with simple ingredients. 

What Is ‘Baby Lunch’

First, we’ll tell you what it's not. Baby lunch, as a term, does not refer to a specific diet that will help you lose weight. 

Instead, baby lunch is a collection of finger foods or simple dishes that you can easily prepare the night before. These foods should be nutritious and easy to snack on, so you can grab from your fridge at any time of day.

For fruits and veggies, go simple. Cucumber, grapes, baby carrots, apple slices, bell peppers, celery, bananas, berries, peaches, oranges, etc. You should be able to prepare these items in 5 minutes or less.

Protein, dairy, and grain can also be simplified. You can make a mini charcuterie board to enjoy at your desk, opting for some deli meats, cheeses, and crackers to make an easy and engaging lunch. A simple sandwich is also effective for getting in those heavier food groups.

Why bother?

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We’re not here to tell you how to live your life; we only wish to simplify some things. If you can meal prep more elaborate meals for the week ahead, go on and live your truth. It’s not possible for everyone.

The idea behind this is to create a section of your fridge or pantry that you know has everything you need for a successful day. Think of it like going back to grade school, preparing your lunchbox with the items you know your parents bought to keep you happy and healthy.

It’s also a way to make sure you’re eating throughout the day without having to think too hard about meal prep. You can grab a handful of grapes or half a cucumber to snack on whenever you feel hungry, which are also easy to snack on as you’re working.

What it comes down to is we’re just telling you to be kind to yourself. It’s okay if you’re not the 5-9 before the 9-5 person, meal prepping after dropping $400 at the grocery store, matching Lululemon workout set, Peloton membership type of person. You still deserve a lunch that will fill you up.

Other Helpful Ideas

• Cook once, eat twice. Don’t be afraid of leftovers! Your grade school self wasn’t.
• No-Cook Options. You don’t actually have to “cook” anything to get a satisfying lunch ready.
• Dedicate Storage. Keep a section of your fridge just for your lunch foods. If you have the time or the energy, this is where you can keep your meal-prepped items.
• I love the pantry. You don’t need to be afraid of canned items. They may be a little high in salt, but they’re excellent when you’re in a pinch.