What`s in your lunch box ? by Champneys Resorts

25th April 2007

Jamie Oliver has sorted out the children’s lunches – but what about yours?

Jamie Oliver hit the headlines recently with his campaign to make school dinners healthier – but how much attention do we pay to our own lunches?

Sometimes what we think is a healthy and nutritious packed lunch is actually a minefield of hidden nutritional no-no’s. But if we want to work - and play – hard, then we need to be eating the right foods.

Champneys Nutritionist Judy Watson has put together some packed lunch ideas that are easy to prepare, nutritious and healthy.

Judy says: “These lunches are quick to prepare the night before and they will provide energy, concentration and help keep your digestion and heart healthy.”

Menu One:
A handful of cherry tomatoes
Two chopped sticks of celery
Half a pot of hummus
A tablespoon of pumpkin seeds and raisins
A packet of oatcakes

Judy says: “The tomatoes are packed full of the antioxidants betacarotene and lycopene, great for protecting skin from damaging and ageing free radicals and celery is great for cleansing the blood.
“Hummus contains healthy fats which will aid concentration and help you stay alert into the afternoon lull.
“Pumpkin seeds and raisins contain valuable Vitamin E, which is essential for healthy circulation, Zinc for a healthy immune system and Iron to combat fatigue.
“Add a packet of oatcakes which contain slow-releasing carbohydrates for sustained energy – perfect if you are going out straight from work!
“Add a small natural yoghurt with a small banana before you leave work if you are heading to the gym on the way home.”

Menu Two:
Two boiled eggs
Four Ryvitas
One sliced whole beetroot
Half a bag of water cress
Quarter of a sliced cucumber

Judy says: “Eggs provide a complete source of protein, in which the good and bad fats are balanced out. Combine these with Ryvitas, which are packed with energy giving carbohydrates. Beetroot contains antioxidants and watercress contains Vitamin C.”

Judy also advises choosing pre-packed sandwiches carefully. “Poached salmon on wholemeal bread will boost energy and concentration levels and goats cheese is easier to digest and lower in fat than cheddar cheese making it a good choice.”

Champneys specialise in residential Spa Breaks and Spa Weekends and can offer nutritional consultations at each of its resort from just £25.00. Call 0845 555 8 555 for further information.