Nutrition and the workplace - they can go together. The pace of the working mom's day is often an excuse for poor eating habits, but the truth is that there are a lot of healthy convenience foods too.
Think about what's missing now in your at work eating - relaxation, change of scenery, non messy options, more fruits and vegetables. It might be a simple a matter as slowing down when you eat, clearing your desk clutter if you eat at your desk, or stepping out into the fresh air with your sandwich.
Shop for your desk drawer even if you work at home. Meal replacement bars are great for eating on the go as is dried fruit. If you eat nuts for a little power pack of protein, make sure you package them in small portions so that you're not mindlessly nibbling at too many calories. Sitting at a desk, while the work may feel exhausting, doesn't burn too many calories.
Pack takeout for yourself. If you are tempted by the wallet and waistline busting take out options around your work, pack heat able leftovers or a more involved salad with interesting toppings. If time doesn't allow for something you make yourself, try one of the light microwaveable cuisine options. Veggies and dip are always a good packing stand-by as well.
Get menus of nearby healthy options and fit in some social time. If you are determined to treat yourself to a restaurant experience, plan ahead and meet up with someone you've been meaning to network with for work or one of the girlfriends you've neglected since life's gotten so hectic.
If you work through lunch, slow down the eating pace, and pack yourself multiple courses. It will make eating a more enjoyable experience, and a more substantial part of your day so you're not forgetting you just ate and helping yourself to the sweets in the board room later.
Reward yourself with food. Contrary to popular opinion, it can be beneficial if you are eating correctly. You can look forward to your lunch. Just make sure you take in fewer calories than you burn over the day. If you are not sure when you stand on the health-o-meter or are unsure where to make dietary changes, keep a food diary and consult a nutritionist whether online, through a local public health unit, or at an organized group such as weight watchers.
You can get your environment on your side. Store flavored water bottles in your desk, post your health priorities in your workspace, and use mood colors such as light green or blue to lessen the risk of compulsive at-desk eating. Color does not have to come from setting aside a time or getting permission to paint. Large posters in calming colors will do the trick too.
Plan your attack on lunch room donuts. Whether you decide to work in the calories and have one, or find an alternative to snack on; to not plan for the arrival of donuts and chocolate in the office is like failing to plan for regular expenses. They are a part of life and without the planning you will go overbudget.
Take time today to think of your nutritional needs. Likely there's a simple way to fit them into your workday and you will thank yourself later for taking the moment to consider how.
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