Need help please

Do you have to have the shake for lunch? Could you try some real food? Today for lunch I had a salmon patty, huge plate of veggies and a salad and it was half the calories of your lunch. Maybe just add a salad to your shake?

Can't you take a small cooler or lunch box with an ice pack? You can take hard boiled eggs, greek yogurt, cottage cheese......also what about fruit? Apples, clementines, bananas, etc. Kashi makes great whole grain snacks that have decent amounts of protein for what it is....crackers, granola bars, even cookies!

I also like almonds or pistachios for a snack. Yes, they're high in fat, but its healthy fat and that's why they make you feel full shakes are just not very filling. Real foods full of fiber or healthy fats are great for curbing hunger.

Try to combine your snacks so that you are getting some healthy whole grain or fibrous carbs with some protein for satiety. I like to take yogurt, add extra frozen fruit (it mostly thaws by lunchtime in my cooler), and I sprinkle on some whole or ground flax seed for more fibre and omega-3's. You can also try apple slices or any fruit with a tbsp of natural nut butter or a small handful of raw nuts. I also like the Kashi granola bars - they are higher in protein and fibre than most commercial snack bars and are easy to eat on the go if needed. I also use protein bars sometimes because they are quick and easy but they are higher in calories - I portion them so I only eat half a bar which still has lots of protein and then add a piece of fruit and lots of water which also fills me up quick. I also like veggies and a couple tablespoons of hummus (still have to watch calories on hummus as it will be similar to dip but will also have more protein and usually contain a healthier oil like olive oil instead of mayo, plus comes in some great flavors).

I'd stay away from the pretzels and the wheat thins if you can. Not only do they contain a lot of salt, they are pure carb and if you are like me, you ending up eating way more than you intended to do b/c I just can't stop once I start. Also, beware of most crackers - even though they sound healthy, they contain a lot of saturated fats and trans fats with little fibre - even the "healthier" versions are still not that great - and keep an eye on their serving size. A better choice would be half of a small whole wheat pita. There are a few healther crackers - can't think of the name of them, but honestly, they taste like cardboard!!!
Good luck!