One study done by the American Dietetic Association found that 75% of office workers like to eat their lunch at their desks.
This may sound like a triumph of work ethic (or a symptom of how overworked most of us are), but whatever it is, it’s not healthy. Experts who have tried to study the impact of this phenomenon found that this type of eating habit can contribute to weight gain. In other words, it’s making you fat! Read on or more information.
The results of the study
The study was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It involved observing 44 people who were divided into two groups: one ate lunch that was free of any distractions, while the other group was asked to eat while playing a game of solitaire
Not surprisingly, those who who had to eat while playing cards said they didn’t feel full. In fact, most of them were inclined to ask for a cookie (or an equally fat-filled, sugar-filled dessert) to feel satisfied. The other group, who ate the same food in the same portions, felt full.
Take 15 minutes
No matter how heavy your workload is, you can afford (and you deserve) a 15 minute break for lunch. Step away from the desk, and all the stress and pressure it represents. Have lunch outside, clearing your head, so that you can return refreshed and ready to tackle your work once again.
Avoid temptation
Sometimes it’s just impossible to leave the desk, or more convenient to eat your packed lunch in your cubicle instead of a noisy cafeteria. Then stay—but remove all temptations. Bring a healthy lunch and keep your drawers free of pretzels, chocolate bars, or anything that will feed (literally!) the craving for something sweet. Remember that your mind is playing tricks on you. You’re not hungry, just distracted.
Walk it off
End your meal with a relaxing stroll around the block. It will help you relax, work off a few calories, and dstance yourself from any snacks. It’s also good for the digestion. Play your favorite music on your Ipod, or invite a co-worker to join you–nothing like a good conversation to help relieve stress. Just don’t vent about work, because you’ll only feel frustrated and emotionally drained when you return to your desk.
Worried about the extra pounds? Read our article on how to lose weight without even trying.
Photo from guardian.co.uk