Are you looking for healthy lunch ideas? Having a creative lunch helps you to get through the day eating well, and often will put a smile on your face.

I take my lunch to work because it is delicious, easy, cost effective, and frankly, much more healthy than eating out every day. Many people use lunchbox bentos (like the one seen here) as an effective weight loss strategy - and while that's certainly not everyone's goal, it's nice to know that eating your own lunches can have a positive impact on your waistline!

It's also important to pack healthy lunches for kids. Replacing school lunch with a home packed  lunch for your child a few times a week is an easy way to keep your kids healthy, and reduce childhood obesity. Too often school lunches are lacking in essential nutrients and whole foods - and starting a habit of packing a lunch at an early age can create a lifetime of healthy eating. It also reduces the chance of picky eating by exposing your child to many new foods.

Don't let yourself fall into the trap of a boring lunch! Be creative with your lunches! Variety is key.

1. Find a great container: For daily lunchbox users, a Mr. Bento, or a Laptop Lunch system are great, well designed full lunch box options. In addition to these, I use a variety of tupperware, bento boxes that I get at asian markets, fresh and fit boxes, or some of my favorites - lock n' lock. If you want to avoid plastic, pyrex makes some great covered containers.

2. Pack a balanced lunch: The key here is balance - not too much, not too little, and well rounded! The japanese often use a 3-2-1 system, of three parts slow burning carbs (ie. whole grains), two parts vegetable, and one part protein. I always try to have at least two vegetables and fruits - another trick is to use a rainbow of colors to get different nutrients. You might want more protein - just try for heart healthy proteins that are low in fat.

3. Pack a snack: Don't forget to pack a snack for midway between your lunch and dinner to help give you an extra boost. Aim for about 200 calories - good options include a small handful of nuts, fresh fruit, or a hardboiled egg.

4.Create a lunchbox pantry: The easiest way to save time packing lunches is to have a good lunchbox pantry - frozen meatballs, frozen dumplings, cubed cheese, single serve rice portions, hardboiling a half dozen eggs, or making a big pot of grains or beans once a week is a great way to save time and energy actually making your lunches.

5.Pack your lunch before bed: If you pack your lunch before bed, you will have more time in the morning to eat breakfast (dont' skip! it's important!) and have more time to get ready in the morning. Up and at 'em!