Before you're tempted to make another cup of coffee, there are healthier and more fueling snacks to keep at your work desk for a productive workday. With employee well-being at the forefront of most companies' priorities, it's time to rethink your view of office snacking as it contributes to how you feel, think, and move. If you’re lagging in productivity and motivation, the right snack could be just what you need to keep your motivation and productivity levels up throughout the day!
Link Between Food and Productivity
Does the dreaded afternoon crash disrupt your workflow and productivity at work? Wouldn't it be great to find a way to prevent it?
Your brain is the culprit in this crash. While the brain is only responsible for two percent of your body weight, it uses up to 20 percent of your energy stores. It is different from other organs and muscles in the body as it cannot store energy, which means it must be constantly supplied with oxygen and energy to function.
It shows the link between food that fuels your brain and body to productivity. Eating healthy snack foods is the secret to avoiding the afternoon crash and staying productive throughout the day, allowing you to crush your workday goals.
Sharing snacks can also foster a sense of community among coworkers. It encourages socialising and can make the workplace feel more inviting.
It shows the link between food that fuels your brain and body to productivity. Eating healthy snack foods is the secret to avoiding the afternoon crash and staying productive throughout the day, allowing you to crush your workday goals.
Sharing snacks can also foster a sense of community among coworkers. It encourages socialising and can make the workplace feel more inviting.
Best Office Snacks for Productivity
Food fuels performance. If you want to boost your workday's productivity, consider adding these snack options to your next grocery run—and make sure you are well-stocked at your work desk.
1. Nuts
It probably isn't your first time hearing about nuts being a healthy snack. Snacking on nutty goodness offers many heart-healthy benefits as most nuts can lower LDL or the "bad" cholesterol in the body. In addition to its health benefits, nuts offer a balance of macro-nutrients as it is a good source of protein and healthy fats. And since some nuts are a good source of fiber, they can leave you feeling full between meals, reducing the possibility of unhealthy snack cravings.
You can elevate your office snacks by preparing a trail mix that features a blend of nuts and dried fruits. Some trail mixes also have dark chocolate and coconut for those who have that sweet tooth, a little motivation for making your own trail mix.
2. Granola Bars
Granola bars are rich in protein and fiber, which can fuel you for an entire workday. They are made of rolled oats, dried fruits, and honey. A granola bar is a super energy booster that tastes good, too.
It is a good snack for a concentrated energy source without unhealthy sugars. Therefore, it won't leave you feeling sluggish afterwards.
3. Energy Balls
Energy balls are like granola bars, but they are formed into balls for easier snacking. They use healthy ingredients such as oats, dried fruits, nuts, dates, and natural sweeteners. Since they are formed into balls, they are easy to pack if you make them yourself at home.
Energy balls offer various nutrients, depending on the specific ingredients used. But for the common ingredients mentioned earlier, it can offer good carbs, healthy fats, fiber, and protein. You can get anywhere from 100 to 250 calories per ball, ensuring you stay full and satisfied to fuel you on a busy workday.
4. Hard-Boiled Eggs
There's no easier office snack to prepare than hard-boiled eggs. But don't underestimate its ability to fuel your brain and body during a busy workday because it's packed with protein. Plus, it's highly convenient to make and pack.
One egg contains protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, B6, and B12. Another notable benefit of snacking on hard-boiled eggs is that they are a source of choline, which improves memory and brain vitality, which are crucial in staying productive.
5. Dried Seeds
Like nuts, dried seeds are a perfect office snack because they are loaded with nutrients and satisfying in terms of taste. The variety of options for dried seeds, each offering unique nutrients, can add an element of excitement and adventure to your snacking routine.
Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of magnesium, healthy fats, and zinc. Other healthy seeds include sunflower and flax seeds.
Dried seeds are a great office snack in many ways. You can enjoy them on your own or pair them with other healthy snacks to enhance texture and flavour.
6. Fresh Fruits
Depending on where you are, various seasonal fruits are available throughout the year. It is a good idea to bring fresh fruits into the office as a snack, as they are high in vitamins and nutrients while also being delicious.
The most popular fruit snack options include apples, grapes, bananas, berries, cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
7. Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are another option in the growing list of superfoods that you can enjoy as an office snack. They are an excellent gluten-free alternative if you want to add more protein to your diet or if you are looking for a vegan option. Chickpeas are packed with vitamin B6, iron, and magnesium.
Roasting them at home brings out the flavour, aroma, and texture of the chickpeas, accelerating your snacking experience. You can choose any seasoning you want or enjoy them as they are.
8. Crackers
Stock up on healthy crackers made of whole grains and high-protein ingredients. Opt for ones that are low in sugar to steer clear of a major blood sugar spike that could lead to an unwanted crash.
To make snacking more satisfying, pair crackers with other healthy snack options, such as smoked salmon, tuna pouches, or hummus.
9. Popcorn
Air-popped popcorn is a whole grain that can be a low-calorie snack when prepared without too much butter or salt. Season it with herbs or nutritional yeast for added flavour.
Tips for Keeping Snacks Organised:
Create a Snack Station:
Designate a specific area in the office for snacks. Stock it with a variety of healthy options to encourage employees to make better choices.
Encourage Contribution:
Organize a “snack swap” day where everyone brings their favourite snacks to share. This not only diversifies the snack options but also allows everyone to try something new.
Mindful Portions:
Offer snacks in portion-controlled servings to prevent overindulgence. Small bags or containers can help keep portions in check.
Le Digestif:
Giving your body the proper fuel can power it to sustain your day’s activities, especially when you are in a series of meetings or chasing work deadlines. Consider adding: Incorporating a variety of healthy and indulgent snacks in the office can significantly enhance productivity and morale. By choosing mindful snacks, not only are you nourishing your body but also creating a more enjoyable and connected workplace. Choose from this list of healthy snacks to improve productivity and nourish your brain and body so you can perform at your fullest potential and elevate your office experience.