Eating well at work
Briana Traut, Registered Dietitian
CentraCare Weight Management
Between the breakroom, catered lunch meals, planned potlucks, vending machines and the office candy jar — eating well at work can be tough! Being aware and mindful of food choices and the amount of time you spend sitting each day can make a huge impact on your health.
Be mindful
- Are you experiencing true physical hunger? Is your stomach growling? Eat to satisfy your hunger — not because something looks or smells good.
- Observe the color, texture and smell of what you are eating. Eat it slowly and taste every bite.
Be thoughtful
- Pack your own healthy lunch and snacks if going into the break room or cafeteria is too tempting.
- Meal plan and meal prep! Extra time throughout the week? Plan your meals for the next work week.
- Have a water bottle at your desk or work area with you. Aim to drink 64 oz. of water throughout the day.
Get moving
- Park farther away.
- Use your breaks to go for a quick walk.
- Walk to your coworker’s office to talk rather than sending an email.
- Use the restroom on the other side of the building or on a different floor.
Pace yourself
- Catered lunch? Have smaller plates to help control portions. Larger dishes and plates tend to increase our portion sizes.
- Office potluck? Bring a healthy dish that you can enjoy such as fresh fruit or a vegetable tray.
- Eating lunch during a meeting? Distracted eating can cause us to eat too quickly — slow down and be mindful of what is on your plate.
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Review all of our For the Health of It blog articles.
