You Are What You Eat!
A healthy diet is an important first step toward a strong immune system and protection against flagging energy levels and zapped productivity. Encouraging healthy eating habits is another way to promote wellness in the workplace. Today, more than one-third of U.S. adults are classified as obese,[1] a leading cause of diabetes and other medical issues and expenses. It’s no secret that poor nutrition can contribute to weight gain and fatigue – a problem often compounded by a sedentary lifestyle (e.g. sitting at a desk all day).
In an overall effort to promote and increase wellness, companies can help steer employees towards responsible and healthy food choices. Here’s some food for thought for your checklist:
Restock The Break Room: Help employees stay alert and healthy with smart snacking options that curb the munchies. Offer alternatives to candy bars, sugary drinks, and pastries in the office break room. Instead offer trail mix, granola bars, tea and bottled water.
Arrange for Fresh Fruit Deliveries: Instead of brining in donuts for monthly meetings, opt for more natural sugars and bring fresh fruit instead. Partnering with a local produce buying club such as The Longevity Project affiliate Endlessly Organic can ensure that you always have fresh organic produce available.
Scrutinize Your Vending Machine: Do you have a vending machine? The Longevity Project can offer healthy vending machine alternatives that offer better choices and improve productivity.
Explore Adding a Juice Bar or Fresh Pressed Juice Delivery Service: The Longevity Project has partnered with the top local juice companies and we can help you determine your office’s need.
Combine Healthy Food with other Healthy Habits: Enabling and encouraging employees to incorporate short bursts of exercise into the workday can promote wellness and increase focus. Employees should be encouraged to use their breaks to take a quick walk or do chair yoga. Exercise helps relieve stress, builds energy, and promotes healthy habits.
[1] “Adult Obesity Facts,” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, April 27, 2012 <http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html>