Optimize your workday with these healthy eating tips!
In the hustle and bustle of a busy workday, it’s easy to prioritize convenience over nutrition. However, making mindful choices about what you eat can greatly enhance your productivity, energy levels, and overall well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you maintain a healthy eating routine throughout your workday.
1. Plan for Success
Investing time in planning and preparing nutritious meals and snacks at home isn’t just about saving money; it’s about supercharging your energy, boosting your creativity, and enhancing your focus throughout the entire day.
2. Make a Snack Station
Create a designated space in your workspace for healthy snacks. Whether it’s a desk drawer or a box under your desk, having easy access to nutritious options is essential. Stock up on items like low-sugar oatmeal, whole grain crackers, nut butter, tinned fish, and long-lasting fruits like apples.
3. Stay Equipped
Invest in a cooler bag, ice packs, and reusable cutlery to keep your fresh foods cool and make it easier to bring your meals from home. This not only ensures your food stays fresh but also reduces the need for disposable utensils and containers.
4. Don’t Drink Your Calories
Swap out high-sugar and high-fat speciality drinks for healthier alternatives. Opt for water infused with fruits or herbs, a simple cup of coffee with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or unsweetened herbal teas. Avoiding sugary beverages can help maintain stable energy levels and prevent unnecessary calorie consumption. Pro-tip: upgrade to a stainless steel or glass water bottle to reduce plastic waste and toxin exposure.
5. Pay Attention to How Your Food is Cooked
When selecting your meals, opt for foods that are prepared using healthier cooking methods such as baking, grilling, broiling, or poaching. Request sauces and dressings on the side so you can control the amount you use, reducing excess calories and unhealthy fats.
6. Eat the Rainbow
Strive to incorporate a variety of non-starchy vegetables and fruits into your daily meals. The World Health Organization recommends consuming at least 400 grams of these foods daily. Including them in your lunches and snacks is an easy way to meet this goal, and it adds a burst of colour and nutrients to your diet.
7. Practice Mindful Eating
How you eat is just as important as what you eat. Step away from your desk during meal breaks to create a mindful eating experience. Invite a colleague to join you for lunch or enjoy your meal outside, connecting with nature whenever possible. Avoid eating while staring at your computer screen to promote a more mindful and enjoyable mealtime.
Fun Fact: Did you know that being in nature, or even looking at a painting or photograph of nature, can improve your digestion, boost creativity, and enhance concentration? Incorporating natural elements into your work environment can have surprisingly positive effects.
Remember, small changes in your eating habits can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and well-being. By following these tips, you can optimize your workday and set yourself up for success both professionally and personally. Your body and mind will thank you!
Ready to take your nutrition and lifestyle to the next level?
Contact Janice Wiggins ONFORMcoaching for a personalized nutrition and lifestyle plan that’s tailored just for you!
Written by Janice Wiggins – Photo by Thomas Schütze on Unsplash