It was right around this time last year that I decided to eliminate gluten from my diet to see if it would actually improve my mood and energy. Prior to this change I would wake up in the morning and after 1 hour would feel extremely lethargic like all the energy in me had been depleted in one sitting. Initially, I blamed my underactive thyroid for this problem but I think we need constant reminders that what we put into our bodies affects the way we function in the world. I had already started packing bentos for work but when I started cooking gluten-free, I noticed a huge difference in my energy levels. My body had a dramatic response to the nutrient dense, gluten–free foods I was eating. No more fogginess at work and a huge improvement in skin, hair, and nails. When it comes to packing lunch, bentos are great for monitoring contaminants and controlling portions. If you need some ideas for packing lunch for your kiddos or for yourself during the work week, here are lunches I’ve prepared that worked really well for me. Most of them are leftovers from the night before or quick meals I can put together in the morning.

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