A guilt-free lunch

It’s a meal that’s hard to miss, and even harder to get right.

Lunch can be a tricky task for busy executives and soccer moms. Anyone who skips it is set up for a day of hunger pangs and crabbiness, but eat the wrong thing and one can feel fatigue, bloated and even face weight-gain issues.

The secret to making lunch a healthy endeavor is to use a little bit of planning, and a little bit of variety, Corona del Mar nutritionist Leanne Disanto said.

“I advise people get some balance. Something with a little carbs, a little protein and a little fat in every meal,” she said.

That usually means thinking about your lunchtime meal while you’re planning out your day and incorporating it into your overall nutritional system.

Of course some days are so busy, the only way to grab a bite is to grab something on the run. If you’re in a hurry, Disanto advises eating fresh fruits and vegetables, or items that are steamed, baked or grilled ? skip anything fried, and try not to eat at fast food places.

“I tell a lot of my clients to avoid risky situations,” she said. “Fast food is starting to have some decent options, but it’s hard to walk into a fast food place and order the healthy stuff.”

Most importantly, don’t skip lunch. It drains your energy and makes you more susceptible to junk food when you get home. Instead, break up the day with healthy snacks, like carrots, low-fat cottage cheese, and yogurt.

In case you need some help, here are a few places around town where you can grab a dish you know is going to make you feel good: