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Plain and simple, being a healthcare professional means being busy. And
with such hectic schedules, it's all too easy to grab a quick burger, a candy
bar from the vending machine, or an extra large soda from a near-by gas
station. While these types of foods are quick and easily accessible, they're
not the healthiest choices. Furthermore, such foods can leave you feeling
bloated and tired-which is exactly the opposite of what you need at work.
Healthier eating will not only help you stay lean and fit, but it can help
elevate your mood, energy, and self-esteem as well as reduce anxiety and stress.
Improving your eating habits isn't as difficult as it may seem. Start by
bringing nutritious snacks to work. By keeping healthy foods on hand for a quick
lunch or snack, you'll be more likely to resist those candy bars and burgers
later on in the day.
What are some tips for snacks to keep at work? Try storing any of the
following items in your desk or locker:
- Whole grain crackers
- Dried or canned fruit
- Rice cakes
- Whole grain cereal
- Granola bars
- Instant soups / pastas
- Peanut butter
- Whole grain bread
- Canned fish
- Bran muffins
- Fresh fruit
- Pretzels
In addition, your workplaces may have fridges and lunchrooms where
perishable foods can be stored. If that's the case, try bringing healthy items
such as low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, salad greens, sliced meats, milk, and
bottled water.
Other Helpful Tips
When you do go out for your lunch or dinner hour, take note of the following
tips:
- Order tacos or burritos with salsa and skip the cheese
- Top pizzas with chicken or Canadian bacon with lots of vegetables
- Opt for grilled meat instead of fried
- Have water or skim milk instead of soda
- Always leave some food on your plate-portion sizes at most restaurants are
way too big
- Substitute a salad for French fries
- Use mayo and "special sauces" sparingly
- Ask restaurants if nutrition information is available
- When having a salad, be careful with the amount of dressing used
"Eating everything you want is not that much fun. When
you live a life with no boundaries, there's less joy. If you can eat anything
you want to, what's the fun in eating anything you want
to?"
-Tom Hanks
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