7 Healthy Break Room Snack Ideas
Let’s face it, we all have that one coworker that always brings temptation into the office break room in the form of deliciousness (this may actually be you). One of the most common reasons individuals consume unhealthy food choices at work is because it is simply available and accessible. In the World Happiness Report, researchers found that getting along with your coworkers and participating in supportive and engaging exercises can make one feel more satisfied. So it's time to find satisfaction in camaraderie and support with your coworkers rather than perceived satisfaction in your belly from overeating those break room treats.
7 healthy, delicious, fun break-room snacks
Traditional Cheese and Fruit TrayMost of the time when you crave something sweet, you grab a sugar-loaded, fatty treat. Instead, opt for a quick, easy grocery store buy with cheese and fruit. The cheese has protein and fat needed for a balanced diet while the fruit has fructose (naturally occurring sugar) that will help curb you appreciate for something sweet. Must have SWEETOkay, okay! We cannot always avoid having something sweet at work. So pick up some single-serving dark chocolates to throw in your candy dish. Dark chocolate has been shown to improve cognitive function and heart health. Fruit Infused Water You and your coworkers often struggle getting enough water down the hatch at work. So instead of laying down those extra gallons of sweet-tea and lemonade from yesterday’s work function, opt for some fruit infused water instead. Fill up the water pitcher, throw in some slices of lemon and cucumber, and ENJOY!
Yogurt Bar with Berries and GranolaThis spread is sure to be a tasty crowd pleaser. The key is to use small cups that will keep portion size in check. Then lay out a container of each: low-fat greek or plain yogurt, plain sugar-free granola and your favorite berries (blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, etc.) The granola contains fiber that will make you feel full longer and the berries have anti-inflammatory properties.]Veggies and Homemade Dip You may be surprised at how many of your colleagues actually want to increase their vegetable intake along with you. So why not help? Hummus, guacamole, Greek yogurt, and dill dip are all yummy and healthy dips that pair nicely with various vegetables. Speaking of, vegetables like baby carrots, broccoli, celery and cherry tomatoes go well with almost any dip. Trail MixSkip that bowl of potato chips and instead opt for a mixture of unsalted nuts, seeds and dried fruit. Since some of your coworkers may have a semi-common allergy to peanuts, choose options like almonds, cashews, pecans or walnuts instead. Nuts and seeds high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids have been shown to lower cholesterol and triglycerides. NothingWait? What? Did you just read that right? Yes you did! Misery loves company, so do you really want to be known around the office as “Misery?” Avoid being know as that person that always puts food in the break room by simply not doing it instead. Your easily tempted colleagues will thank you!Click HERE to learn more about the Wellview services available to you. We can’t wait to work with you!
– HEATHER FUSELIER, CHWC, CFP, TTS
Health Advisor | Email Heather
