Poor diet and physical inactivity are two of the top causes of ill-health in the UK, and in many cases, it’s our working habits that negatively impact our health. Sitting at a desk all day is unavoidable in some occupations and all too often we grab food that will provide some instant gratification at the expense of our wellbeing over the longer term.
However, the good news is that in the modern workplace, it doesn’t have to be that way. Techniques that encourage movement, such as walking lunches and cycling to work, are being actively encouraged, and an increasing number of employers are using office fruit delivery companies to ensure there is a constant supply of healthy food in the workplace. The leading UK provider is currently Fruitful Office, you can apply for a free quote for their service here.
But just what are the advantages of having a ready supply of healthy food at work? Here’s a quick run-through of some of the benefits.
- Productivity and energy boosting
The scientific link between eating healthily and productivity at work is well-established. A study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology found that adults who ate healthily over a 13-day period had greater wellbeing and more feelings of meaning and purpose at work. They were also more proactive, supportive of those around them and productive, basically the perfect employee and colleague. Isn’t it amazing what a little fruit and veg can do?
- Immune system boosting
Absenteeism is one of the biggest problems facing today’s employers. Right now, studies suggest that every employee costs British businesses approximately £500 a year in absentee costs. And the simple fact is that employees who eat healthily are less likely to get sick and recover more quickly.
The immune system boosting properties of fresh fruit and vegetables are particularly poignant given the return to the workplace following the pandemic. With levels of so-called ‘return anxiety’ high among employees, employers can do their best to reassure their employees by providing fresh and healthy food in the workplace.
- Control sugar cravings
Sugar cravings are extremely common and something most of us will experience from time to time. When you’re in the midst of a sugar craving, it can be very difficult to control yourself around food, particularly when you’re at work and there’s very little you can do to divert your mind. The result can be binge eating and consuming the wrong types of food, often in large quantities.
Luckily, eating fruit is a great way to take the edge off. Fruit is naturally sweet to provide the sugar fix you need but it also contains lots of highly beneficial nutrients, fibre and plant compounds. Mangoes and grapes have a high sugar content to hit that sweet spot. You can also add some yoghurt to make it a more filling snack.
- Boost staff morale
Giving staff the opportunity to eat healthy food at work, particularly when it’s free, is one most employees will jump at. The increasingly health-conscious workers of today will view it as an important perk of the job and one that will boost morale as well as also improving staff retention.
Well there you have it, hopefully this has given you the boost you need to start getting fruity in your office!