3 Rules for Eating Healthy at Work
By Genevieve Cunningham
Healthy eating is important no matter where you are or what you're doing. It's important at home, on vacation, and at work. The more we eat healthy, the healthier our bodies will be and the better we'll feel on a regular basis. But sometimes it's hard to keep up with a healthy diet. While this isn't too big of a deal on occasion -- like on vacation -- it's a much bigger deal if we're struggling daily -- like at work. If you need help keeping your diet on track at the office, take a look at these tips to help you get moving in the right direction.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead is key for so many things in life, and eating a healthy diet at work is no exception. If you don't plan ahead, you're more likely to grab something from the nearby gas station or the vending machine. You're more likely to fill your stomach with junk and to binge later in the day. Plan each and every meal and snack before you ever get to the office. The more prepared you are, the better off you're going to be in the long run.
Always Have Extra
The healthiest people usually take their own meals and snacks to work. Sometimes they'll go out, but for the most part, they carry their own from home. While this works most of the time, we often get into trouble when we run out. We forget to take our lunch, and then we grab a hamburger at lunch. We forget to hit the grocery store, and so we don't have anything to carry that day. Instead of allowing this to happen, keep extras at work. Fill your office drawers and office refrigerator with a few emergency foods -- healthy items that last and also work in a pinch. This helps you stay on top of your diet even when the rest of your world feels a little out of control.
Research Your Surroundings
There will inevitably be times when you go out to eat at work. You'll want to hang with your coworkers or you'll just feel like a change of pace. This is another time when it's important to be prepared. Get to know the area where you work. Get to know the local restaurants, and then go a step further. Get to know their menus! If you already know the safe, healthy things to order, then going out on a whim will be easy, satisfying, and still keep your body well.
It might be challenging to keep a healthy diet at work, but it's not impossible. It takes thought and effort and a little planning ahead. And it certainly takes some self-discipline! But it's definitely something that you can accomplish. Use these tips to keep your work diet on track, and you'll experience better health in your everyday life.
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