Workplaces are key spaces for improving wellbeing as working adults spend at least a third of their time in work. Eating well at work can pose challenges especially if the job involves shifts, driving, office or remote work. It can be easy to choose something quick and convenient when we are busy or short on time and these choices are not usually the healthiest options. It is important to consider changing our diets to adopt a healthier lifestyle to protect us from conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease which are associated with chronic complications, increased staff sickness and performance issues.
Research has shown that improving healthy eating in the workplace leads to increased motivation of employees and a better working atmosphere. When organisations support healthy eating, they have an improved public image. Eating better is also shown to increase innovation, creativity and productivity of the workforce.
Tips for employees:
- Meal prep food in advance and set a reminder to bring it into work.
- Choose healthier snacks such as fruit, yoghurts and nuts.
- Empty snack drawers at work or at home so they are not easily accessible.
- Choose healthier options where possible from the work canteen or when nipping out for lunch. Healthier choices include high protein meals such as meat, fish, poultry or grains. Choose options that include lots of vegetables and are low in saturated fat.
- Watch out for sugary drinks and consider reducing the amount of sugar in tea or coffee.
- Take an actual break to eat lunch.
- Drink plenty of water.
Tips for employers:
- Providing suitable facilities for employees to prepare their meals.
- Arrange educational sessions for employees about healthy eating.
- Provide nutritiously balanced meals for employees and offer a wide variety of food.
- Encourage outside catering contractors to provide healthy options for employees.
- Promote healthy eating through posters and written correspondence to employees.
- Promote physical activity amongst staff.
Resources:
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/
https://www.bhf.org.uk/-/media/files/information-and-support/publications/health-at-work/health-at-work-top-tips-for-putting-healthy-eating-into-practice-in-the-workplace.pdf?rev=a7abbe142261457daa358f0ef0fb926e
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/Promoting%20Healthy%20Eating%20At%20Work%2002_14.pdf
https://www.hse.ie/eng/about/who/healthwellbeing/our-priority-programmes/heal/healthy-eating-at-work/
