The long workdays are going to feel even longer heading into winter. And what’s one thing you tend to do when you’re stuck long hours at the office? Snack. By all means, eat if you’re hungry, but there are definitely some better ways than others to kick the craving. So when you get that 2.30pm hunger strike, make sure you’re stocked up on the right stuff. Here are some ways to kick the bad snacking habits and make better choices while you work. It’s office snacking the right way.
Keep a Water Bottle Handy
It may not be quite as satisfying, but making sure you drink consistently throughout the day can help curve those unnecessary cravings, while keeping you hydrated. Tea is another great way to put off snacking and has tons of health benefits, including a metabolism boost and lowering the risk of disease. Various flavors can satisfy your taste buds, while the warmth helps fill your stomach and tie you over til your next meal
Take More Breaks
A lot of the time when we feel like snacking, we’re not really actually hungry as much as we are bored. It’s common to want to reach for a snack when you spend most of your day at your desk. Try getting up and taking a short walk or chatting with a coworker more often during your day. It’ll help break up your workday a little bit and get your mind off snacking. It’s also beneficial to your productivity and focus, while getting out of your chair for a bit is a good way to combat a sedentary lifestyle.
Hide the Candy
Everyone loves that one person in the office that brings in the bowl of candy or chocolates, but you’re not making it any easier on yourself by having those treats staring you in the face all day. Empty the bowl and ditch the junk food. It will only leave you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied anyway.
Plan Your Meals
One of the best ways to avoid eating the wrong things throughout the day is to only allow yourself the healthy option. Plan your meals the night before or in the morning, so that you don’t let your temporary hankerings takeover your decision when lunch time rolls around. If you plan ahead, you’ll be more likely to stick to better eating habits.
Pack Your Own Snacks
Oh, no. Someone brought in cupcakes. It may not be easy to pass up on a delicious pastry, and you don’t always have to. But for those days you’re really trying to stick to your health plan, having your own private stash of not-so-bad guilty pleasures will definitely help! So the next time an employee Dunkin Coffee run turns into a company doughnut party, make sure you have some of these on hand…
Healthy snacks to keep at your desk:
– Pretzels. Simple and easy, but more filling and much better for you than chips
– Peanut Butter. It’s the best parts of so many desserts, but instead pair it with a banana or apple and you’re guilt free.
– Trail mix. All the best little snack foods rolled into one.
– Fruit. No brainer.
– Dried Fruit. Basically the same idea.
– Nuts. Pistachios, almonds, peanuts, whatever your like. Full of healthy fats and nutrients.
– Cereal. Munch on some dry cereals for a low calorie snack.
– Rice cakes. They pair so well with peanut butter, Nutella, jelly or whatever! If you’re craving sweet or salty, grab the caramel corn or white cheddar. The possibilities are endless.
– Granola Bars. So many to choose from for the perfect afternoon snack.
– Dark Chocolate. Because you deserve a real indulgence every now and then, and it has it’s health benefits unlike that doughnut you’re craving.
Sources:
http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/easy_recipes/healthy_snacks_to_stash_in_your_desk
http://www.health.com/health/article/0,,20410366,00.html