How to Avoid Weight Gain in the Office
Lose the Extra Pounds that Office Work Can Inadvertently Add
Jul 9, 2009
Here are some tried and tested rules of behavior that all office-going personnel should stick to, to avoid that office-belly!
Keep the Right Snacks Handy
When hunger strikes and the hands make a grab for the nearest snack, the nearest foods should be ones that are also nutritious and energizing. Pepper the desk drawer or kitchen space with healthy foods, such as flavored yoghurt, nuts, fresh fruit, whole wheat biscuits or crackers, low-fat energy bars, whole-grain Cheerios, hummus with pita bread, and the like.
Avoid Impulse Eating
The vending machine is the most likely culprit of unintentional office weight gain. If snacks are at hand at the desk or in a kitchen space marked with your name, then the impulse to run to the vending machine or another unhealthy alternative is easily avoided!
Drink Up!
Drink cold water before, during and after eating. Drinking before and during a meal will help fill the stomach and send messages to the brain to stop eating, while drinking after a meal will aid digestion.
Avoid Party Food
Easier said than done, especially with peer pressure and rich chocolate cakes floating around! Before joining an office party, consider having a quick snack so as not to arrive ravenously hungry at the start of the party. Second, make an excuse to skip the party for a few minutes- check mail, powder the nose, or make a phone call— anything to get away from the food for a while. It’ll probably be gone soon anyway!
Skip the Sodas and the Alcohol
Opt for sparkling water or plain water whenever possible. This is especially true at a party where social behavior dictates that everyone have a glass in hand. Present a toast with that glass of sparkling water instead!
Exercise at Every Chance
Get in some mild exercise during the workday by walking to work, parking further away, exercising during a lunch break, taking frequent stretching breaks, and the like. Regular short breaks will also help relieve chronic back problems, eye strain issues, neck pain, and carpal tunnel.
Eating healthier and not gaining unnecessary weight in an office environment takes some measure of discipline, especially when peers and colleagues are disapproving or disparaging. Stick to the basic rules above and make smart, healthier choices everyday. It may not be easy, but it isn’t rocket science either!
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