Bento Boxes for Mums

I've been surveying our clients and their bento boxes that they bring to class at Mums and Bubs. I've been asking some questions like, do you make yourself a box? When you prepare the kids meals/school lunches are you making yours? Do you think about making sure you've got all the components to a great lunchbox for the kids? Do you think about that for yourself?

 

 

It got me thinking..... whilst we find us now in our annual women's health week awareness, as a busy mum, it can be challenging to find the time and resources to prioritise your nutrition, especially when juggling the demands of family, work, household and other responsibilities.

With financial strains and the constant pressure to do more, it’s easy to overlook the importance of nourishing yourself properly.

 

However, taking care of your health through mindful eating is one of the most powerful ways to sustain your energy, vitality, and overall well-being—without breaking the bank.

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

 

Start by focusing on simple, whole foods that are both affordable and easy to prepare.

Staples like oats, eggs, beans, and frozen vegetables are not only budget-friendly but also packed with essential nutrients that support sustained energy levels.

 

You can also batch-cook meals on the weekends, like hearty soups or one-tray/pot dishes, that can be stored in the fridge or freezer for quick, nutritious meals during your busiest days.

Incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet doesn’t have to mean splurging on fresh produce.

 

 

Canned and frozen options are often just as nutritious and can be more cost-effective. Look for seasonal produce at your local markets, where prices are generally lower, and try to incorporate a variety of colors in your meals to ensure you’re getting a range of vitamins and minerals. Simple swaps, like choosing whole grains over refined ones and adding a handful of nuts or seeds to your snacks, can also make a significant difference in how you feel throughout the day.

 

 

Staying on-track is all about planning ahead … and putting together some Healthy Snack Bento Boxes is a fun and easy solution.

 

Kids love them, too!

Left overs rock! Salads that last a few days that you can load up with your favourite protein and many more quick 5 ingredient meals are super easy for us.

 

You can assemble your healthy snack bento box in a reusable meal/food container with dividers, but that’s definitely not necessary. Instead, you can use ziploc snack bags or other small sealable containers.

 

Simply package up your ingredients and keep them in the fridge until snack/mealtime!

 

Tip: make sure your bento box contains at least one protein-rich ingredient. This will help stabilise your blood sugar and also help you feel fuller, longer.

 

Possible Healthy Snack Bento Box Ingredients:

 

● Tuna

 

● Hard-boiled eggs

 

● Raw nuts (walnuts, almonds and pecans are great choices)

 

● Grapes

 

● Berries

 

● Veggie sticks

 

● Hummus

 

● String cheese

 

Try to include a mix of 3 to 4 different items in your boxes.

 

If you’re looking for even more creative ideas, check out this guide from Eating Well magazine: www.eatingwell.com/gallery/13659/easy-bento-box-lunch-ideas-for-work-and-school/)

 

The trick is to get these assembled BEFORE you are hungry or feel like snacking! That way you’ll feel less tempted by less-than-healthy snack foods that might be lingering in your kitchen.

 

We know that mum guilt can creep in, especially when it comes to prioritising yourself. But remember, by nourishing your body with wholesome foods, you’re not only enhancing your own health but also setting a powerful example for your children. Teaching them the importance of balanced nutrition is a gift that will benefit them for a lifetime. And when you feel more energised and vibrant, you’re better equipped to handle the demands of your busy life with greater ease and positivity.

 

 

You deserve to feel your best, and it starts with making small, mindful changes to your diet that fit within your lifestyle and budget.

 

Let’s commit to nourishing ourselves with intention, so we can continue to show up fully for our families and ourselves.

 

You’ve got the strength and resilience to thrive, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.