Although we know that desk dining can lead to a bad and poor nutrition, many people still eat at their desks several times a week. Why is that? Well, it is always easy to find an excuse; however, the truth is that sometimes we really do not have the time. In a fast and economy-driven world we live in, sometimes 24 hours are not long enough for all the things we have or wish to do. It is as simple as that.
On the other hand, is it that hard to change these bad eating habits? What can we do to change them and how?
Above all, what is wrong with eating at office? Although it seems that there are too many questions, there are also the answers.
What is wrong with eating at office?
In case you wondered why people overeat and overweight, this is your answer – they eat at their desks. When you eat at desk, you are not focused on the food – the phones are ringing, the emails should be sent, the copy machines can broke, papers need to be shuffled, etc. Multitasking is your biggest enemy if you want to eat at your office and stay healthy.
Another disadvantage of desk dining is that you spend another hour in front of a computer and this, on the other hand, can trigger problems with eyesight, concentration, motivation, etc.
In case you move around, and put out off eating for an hour or two, you should question the safety and temperature of your food as well. Plenty of the bacteria will be easily drown to your desk and your food can become a bacteria-feeding ground. Some studies even showed that the desk is 400 times dirtier than your toilet.
Working atmosphere and the interior itself can enchase your appetite as well. Other studies showed that working atmosphere and lack of work would make you eat more. The problem gets even bigger, because the same study showed that in this atmosphere many crave for sweets, fast, and junk food. More junk food – less energy, and concentration and more pounds.
Now, can you find a reason to change your habits?
In a word, we have two options – to find a new place to eat or to improve and change our eating habits. How can we improve our eating habits?
First, you should ask yourself the following question:
What is healthy nutrition?
We may think that we eat healthy food, but, in fact, we do not (most of the time). Healthy food may not be the one we buy at healthy food stores, and the one “labeled as healthy”. Various foods are healthy; however, healthy nutrition is all about knowing what your body needs, why it needs certain food, and where can you get it. For instance, did you know that refined sugar is linked to insomnia, hypertension, dizziness, allergies, and hair loss and skin irritation? Moreover, when we think about it more and realize that many of us use it every day few times a day, we can see how the lack of information can put in danger our body and organism. We should think twice whether or not to use it, right? Your first step is to educate yourself about healthy foods.
Why don’t you bring your own food?
Just because someone else has bad eating habits, it does not mean you should have them too. The truth is that you will eat healthier and receive the proper vitamins and minerals if you plan your lunch. You should not be obsessed with food, but thinking about the food you eat, planning, and preparing it, is very important for a healthy nutrition in the office. When you prepare your food, you can avoid common mistakes related to food combining (such as protein and carbohydrates), for instance. When you think about the food, you will avoid take out lunches that are usually high in fat, calories, and oversized. Preparing your own lunch is also a good way to educate yourself about healthy food. If you plan your lunch, why don’t you bring some snacks as well? Pistachios and almonds, for instance, are great snacks that have great benefits for your mental health.
Why don’t you control your waistline in your own way?
When you prepare your lunch at home, you can surely control your waistline. Eating in cafeteria and at restaurants can bring you additional pounds, no doubt. Therefore, if you want to stay healthy and good looking, think about the food you eat and think about the portions. Studies showed that many people have natural tendencies to “clean the plates” and to finish the bag. This does not mean that you should not eat snacks; it just means that you should be careful with the portions. On the other hand, if you have to eat at your desk, try to move and walk during the day. This can also help you stay healthy and avoid gaining weight.
Why don’t you talk about your nutritional needs with your management?
Cafeterias are packed with unhealthy foods because they are easy for distribution, they sell well, and they are usually cheaper. However, cafeteria should offer various foods and management should meet the needs of their employees. Moreover, employees should show their initiative regarding healthy nutrition in cafeteria. Try talking to your representatives about changing the food menu in the cafeteria.
Remember following:
Do not skip breakfast! If you wish to stay healthy, to change your bad eating habits, and to control your waistline, do not skip breakfast – breakfast is the most important meal. Many researches and studies showed that breakfast is important for our mental and physical strength, for our energy, for our body and our overall health.
Change your work environment! Eat with a friend or a colleague whenever you can. Invite your clients for a coffee or drink instead for lunch.
Disinfect your desk and use placements, if you can.
Keep healthy foods in the office fridge and at your desk (include green tea bags as well).
Be a positive example to your coworkers.