Offices are homes away from home to most of us, a place where we spend long hours, and sometimes even more time than we do at home. However, while working in an office environment, how healthy is the food that we eat during break times?.

Most workers often take snacks while at work, but unfortunately, most of these snacks are not healthy. They are usually high in calories and low in nutrients, putting workers at risk of developing serious health problems.

In fact, studies have shown that office snacks are causing health problems, just like passive smoking.

The Unhealthy Snacks at the Office

It is no secret that the office is a place where junk foods are highly available. These office snacks are usually filled with refined sugar, unhealthy fats, and preservatives.

They are also easily accessible and can be found on almost every desk and corner of the office. Common office snacks that are unhealthy include cookies, chips, candies, chocolates, and sweetened beverages like soda, energy drinks, and coffee.

The average office worker will consume, on average, almost a thousand calories during snack time alone, which is approximately half of their daily recommended calorie intake.

The Health Risks Associated with Office Snacks

There are several health problems that can be caused by consuming unhealthy office snacks, including:.

Obesity

Obesity is one of the most common health problems caused by consuming unhealthy snacks. Sugary and fatty snacks found in the office can lead to weight gain, which can lead to obesity if not controlled.

When one is obese, there is an increased risk of developing lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Poor Oral Health

Unhealthy snacks constantly consumed in the office can lead to numerous oral health problems.

As the bacteria in the mouth breakdown the sugars found in office snacks, acid is produced and attacks the enamel of the teeth, leading to tooth decay and other oral health problems.

Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Research suggests that consuming sugary and fatty office snacks increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes. As such, it is important to limit the intake of such snacks, especially if one is already predisposed to diabetes.

Poor Nutrition Delivery to the Body

Unhealthy snacks are low in nutrients, which deprives the body of much-needed vitamins and minerals.

When the body doesn’t receive the essential nutrients, it needs to function correctly, and it can lead to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

What Can be Done to Improve the Situation?

Now that we understand the health risks of consuming unhealthy snacks in the workplace, it’s essential to find solutions to help prevent these risks. Here are some steps that can be taken:.

Provide Healthy Snack Options

Employers can provide healthy snack options in the office, such as fresh or dried fruits, nuts, nut butter, popcorn, protein bars, and veggies such as carrot, celery, and cucumber with hummus or guacamole.

Encourage Eating Out

Employers can encourage workers to eat out for lunch instead of staying in the office and consuming unhealthy snacks. Eating out provides the opportunity for workers to choose healthier food choices, avoiding unhealthy snacks in the office.

Offer Nutritional Education

It is vital for employers to educate their employees on the importance of healthy eating, the risks of consuming unhealthy snacks, and the benefits of a balanced diet.

The Importance of Physical Exercise

Physical exercise is a crucial aspect of healthy living and can help counteract the negative effects of unhealthy office snacks.

It is therefore important to encourage employees to incorporate physical exercise in their daily routine, and remind them of the benefits of regular exercise.

Conclusion

There is no denying that snacks in the workplace provide a quick energy boost, and help satisfy hunger pangs during work hours.

However, the problem with office snacks is that they are usually unhealthy, putting workers at risk of developing serious health problems. Employers and employees need to come together and address the issue of unhealthy office snacks seriously.

This can be done by providing healthy options, encouraging eating out for lunch, offering nutritional education, and emphasizing the importance of physical exercise.