Tips for Avoiding Workday Snacking

Maybe it’s stress eating, sheer boredom or even just the fact your co-worker brings in killer homemade baked goods seemingly every day, but it feels like opportunities for unhealthy grazing abound in most office environments. If you consistently start your work day vowing to make balanced choices yet find yourself reaching for that second doughnut by noon, don’t lose hope! Keep your nibbling impulses and workday snacking  in check with these simple tips:

1. Stash your own munchies
If the woman down the hall keeps a bowl permanently stocked with fancy dark chocolate, slay that dragon by keeping a small stockpile of healthier bites in your own desk drawer. That way, your healthier option will be ready when you’re in the mood for a little pick-me-up. Be sure to ration them out by serving size. Almonds are a great choice since they are a wholesome snack that help fight cravings.

2. Brown bag it
Picking the right mix of food for your daytime meal can help fortify you against an afternoon attack of the snacks. Include a fruit, vegetable and a lean protein to help you stay fuller longer and have more energy throughout the day. Make your lunch the night before, instead of in the morning when you’re rushing out the door and may not have time to think through a balanced meal.

3. Keep crave-worthy foods out of sight 
If you can’t easily spy the contents of that co-worker’s candy dish, it’s less likely to entice you. Researchers at Cornell University found that people ate an average of 2.2 more candies a day when they were visible compared to when they weren’t in view. If your co-workers are candy stashers, offer them a dark, lidded bowl for their goodies. A simple swap from a clear container to a beautiful ceramic jar could save you thousands of calories a year.

4. And keep them out of reach
Resist the urge to slip into the conference room after lunch to snag a leftover slice of pizza. Take a few deep breaths when you walk by to bring you back to the present and remember you’re not even hungry. Each time you resist a craving you normally would’ve given in to, you’re building good habits, rather than repeating a negative pattern!
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5. Go for a walk
It’s a great way to relieve work stress, even if you only have 10 minutes. It’s also a way to help you work through a challenging work project. Researchers at Stanford University found that creative thinking increases by 60 percent when you’re taking a stroll. If you can’t get outside, walking up and down the hallway or climbing a few stairs will help too!