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Concerned about the eating habits of my employees
0Q: I'm concerned about the eating habits of my employees. We have a lot of meetings here and tend to order in fattening foods. Do you have a few tips on what I can do to help my employees maintain a healthy weight and combat carb fatigue? - RussellA: Hi Russell, here are a few ideas you can start with.- Make sure that healthy food choices are available (e.g. in meetings, vending machines and cafeterias)
- Make it convenient for employees to bring their lunches and snacks from home. This means having kitchen facilities available with a refrigerator, microwave, toaster, kettle, and sink.
- Make sure that people's work schedules permit adequate time for eating.
Sitting all day long...help me!
Q: I work in an office where I basically sit all day. I get up to have a snack or go to the restroom, but other than that I'm glued to my desk and computer for most of the day. I usually eat my lunch at my desk, as do most of my co-workers. I know this isn't a good idea and I've started to gain a few pounds. Do you have some tips on what I should do to avoid not only weight gain but other health issues that might crop up due to my lack of movement? Thanks! - SueA: You are right to be concerned Sue. Recent studies have shown that sitting for long periods could put your health at risk for metabolic disorders, diabetes and obesity. Aim to get up and move each hour for about five minutes. Here's what you can do during your work day:- Stand while on the phone
- Walk to speak with a colleague rather than email him/her
- Stand up and stretch at your workstation
- Stand up for three to five seconds while your computer is processing
- Take a walk at lunch time and during your breaks
- Use the stairs instead of the elevator
- Move items, such as your water bottle or printer, out of reach so that you have to stand up and move
- Stand up to read paper documents
- Program your computer to send reminders to stand up and move