Posted on March 20, 2015 by Kate Halsall
We know that busy lifestyles can make it hard to stay on track when it comes to eating properly. Last minute meetings, working lunches, surprise off site visits, unexpected late nights at the office, never ending conference calls and deadlines – they all affect our work life balance and it’s often the “life” part which suffers the most. It’s only the vending machines which profit in these environments, but there’s no reason why, with a little prioritisation and preparatio, you can’t stay on track. Here’s our Motive8 top tips on how to stay healthy at work and resist the treats.
Stay Healthy At Work Tip 1 – Scouts Motto – Be Prepared
The NHS states that we consume at least one third of our entire daily intake of calories whilst at work. With this in mind, we need to ensure that they are good calories! Plan your breakfast, lunch or dinner – it takes the guesswork out of a potentially already stressful day, and can also save you from making bad decisions when something last minute “crops up”. If you skip lunch not only are you likely to overeat at your evening meal, you will also lack energy as the day draws on. We all know the nature of our jobs, so we should know how to prepare for all scenarios, it’s just that we don’t.
Stay Healthy At Work Tip 2 – Stay Accountable
You have made the conscious decision to eat healthy, which means you need to decide what it is you want more – the healthy option or the treat. Technology is here to help you keep on track. There are online calorie, diet and nutrition trackers and apps; wearable activity trackers; and phone apps which means you can send photos of your food to your personal trainer!
Stay Healthy At Work Tip 3 – Avoid the Afternoon Slump
Eat the right things at lunch time to keep your system alert. Make sure to include some lean protein, salad or fresh veggies. Choose the right snacks to have throughout the day. Forgo the vending machines in favour of nuts, yogurt, fruit, egg and so on. You also need to keep hydrated – see below.
Stay Healthy At Work Tip 4 – Keep Hydrated
We’re talking water here, not fizzy drinks (high calorie and full of sugar or sweeteners) or endless cups of tea and coffee. The trip to make the cuppa you love also usually takes you near the unhealthy snack options – try and avoid it. Also, research has shown that often when we think we’re hungry, we’re actually thirsty. So if you feel like you need to eat something, try drinking a glass of water first.
Further Reading
http://uk.pcmag.com/activity-trackers/159/guide/the-best-activity-trackers-for-fitness
http://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-diet-nutrition-apps,review-2308.html