Trying to eat healthy while you’re away from a kitchen to prepare or store food can be tough! That being said, there are plenty of solutions for you to create a healthy lifestyle from your office or when you’re on the go. Read on, because I’m going to give you 6 simple tips for eating healthier in an office environment.
1. Keep a Bowl of Fruit at Your Desk
Often times we can get tied up at our desks answering the phone or sending emails, forgetting to eat. Set up a large bowl on your desk, and fill it with fresh fruit at the beginning of each week. Get as creative as you like! Bananas, oranges, or peaches do not require refrigeration, and will last through the work week. Instead of heading for the vending machines plan ahead, and reach for a healthy snack that will energize you through the work day with good quality calories.
2. Snack on Raw Nuts and Seeds
It is important to eat a meal every 3-4 hours. If you go without food for longer than 4 hours your blood sugar levels will drop, and your metabolism will slow down, causing your energy levels to plummet. Raw nuts and seeds are a great snack because they provide protein, fat, fiber, and magnesium. Magnesium serves an important role in metabolism and proper functioning of nerves and muscles. When levels of magnesium drop, you may become fatigued, irritable, and more prone to headaches. It’s worth keeping several different bag of nuts and seeds in your desk drawer. They make a true power snack!
3. Get a Personal Blender
If you’re guilty of rushing out the door and skipping a proper breakfast, you can still start the day off right by making a quick smoothie right at your desk! Most of the mini blenders double as portable drinking containers. This makes it ideal for serving quick, on the go breakfast. Toss in a banana, an orange, chia seeds, and even some nuts for a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Smoothies will keep you hydrated throughout the day, as even slightest dehydration can cause your energy levels to decrease.
4. Stack the Office Fridge on Mondays
Keep a large bag of iron-rich fresh spinach (or baby kale) in the fridge, along with a couple of avocados and different types of legumes. These items can be quickly tossed together, for a balanced, nutritious snack that’s full of essential vitamins and minerals. Top with some of your favorite nuts and seeds. The healthy fat from avocados will provide a more stable source of energy throughout the day. Make sure to add an orange to your salad to get the most benefits out of spinach, as Vitamin C is a powerful iron absorption enhancer in the body.
5. Eat Lunch Away from Your Desk
Try stepping away from your computer whenever possible. Sitting at your desk can encourage mindless eating, as well as overeating. You are less likely to pay attention to the amount of food you’re consuming when multitasking. Instead, pack a healthy lunch at home, and head outside to soak up the sun for a few minutes, allowing your body to synthesize more Vitamin D, which can boost your immune system and help fight depression.
6. Stay Properly Hydrated
Make sure that you are drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Water will flush out toxins from your body and prevent constipation. Keep a large water container at your desk so you won’t have to refill it as often. Dress it up with some sliced citrus or fresh herbs for a more refreshing taste. Avoid stimulants such as energy drinks, or simple sugars in coffee and sodas. These will only lead to a sugar crash and dehydration which translate to becoming more lethargic, and less productive at work.
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