It’s not always easy to be eating healthy at work, especially when starting a new job. But, did you know how much starting a new job can pile on the pounds?
Embarking on a new career can be a busy time and quite an adjustment. It is unsurprising therefore that your career move can have a negative impact on your health.
A recent survey by a national employment provider reveals that half of UK workers have gained weight since commencing their current job and 15% have gained nearly 1.5 stone (9kg) – equivalent to the weight of a large Pug dog!
Many new employees believe their weight gain is caused by being stuck behind a desk all day. Ironically, nearly six in ten workers don’t take time away from their workstation to eat lunch!
When confronted with these statistics, it’s hardly surprising that we also struggle to get any exercise during our lunch breaks with 84% of us stating that we don’t have time to do so.
Our lack of movement at work is undoubtedly having an impact on our health. The survey provider concludes that:
“Some companies have started to implement healthy living initiatives in the workplace and it’s worth finding out if your company offers any healthy lifestyle discounts and offers.”
“Even small changes can make a big difference. Try taking the stairs instead of the lift or stop by a colleague’s desk instead of sending an email. When the weather is sunny, get out there and enjoy it by hopping off the bus at an earlier stop and walk the rest of the way to the office.”
The survey stats:
23% of workers surveyed say they snack at least twice during the working day with 9% snacking more than three times!
Eating because of stress is stated as a reason for weight gain by 43% of people.
10% of us blame eating out regularly for our weight gain.
If you want to be eating healthy at work and feeling better for it, why not try some of these tips:
Choose Healthy Snacks
Snacking can seem harmless with a small bite here and a quick snack there, but the extra calories will quickly add up. Why not swap the sugary chocolate bars and calorie-packed crisps for a healthier option of fruit and veg?
Take a Packed Lunch
Bringing a packed lunch to work will help you to better control your portion sizes and eat healthily. As an added bonus, it will also save you money!
Drink Water
Drinking water throughout the day instead of caffeinated drinks or juices will definitely make you feel healthier and work better. Water helps you to feel fuller faster and will help cut out the calories of other work drinks.
Squeeze In Some Exercise
To compliment your eating healthy at work regime, why not try mixing in some exercise? If you have time (and it’s not raining), go for a short walk at lunchtime with colleagues. As mentioned above, given the option, take the stairs or try getting up to talk to a colleague rather than giving them a ring over the phone or sending an email. You could also try walking at least part of your journey to work each day.
A healthy body means a healthy mind! You’ll definitely start to see the benefits in how you feel, as well as your productivity at work.
