What you put in your mouth can positively or negatively impact your productivity.
This is according to Veer Gidwaney, CEO and co-founder of an American health service platform operating system for employee benefits, Maxwell Health.
In an Inc article, Gidwaney says establishing healthy behaviours for yourself and employees can vastly improve output and office morale, and that unhealthy options and regular snacking can actually be bad for productivity.
Here is how to take care of your health for optimum productivity.
1. Regulate your blood sugar levels
According to Gidwaney, the combination of protein and fiber boasts high levels of phosphorous and magnesium, among other minerals, and is essential for proper immune function and regulating blood sugar levels. “[The combination] will keep you feeling fuller for longer than that bag of chips,” he says. Gidwaney suggests carrots as a healthy alternative. “Plus carrots are rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants and an excellent source of vitamin-A.”
2. Sift the good bacteria from the bad
“Probiotics help increase the good bacteria in your gut and keep the bad bacteria at bay. Combine that with quality granola–perhaps with some added flaxseed and your body will run like a well-oiled machine,” Gidwaney says.
3. Take control of your weight
“An apple a day might not keep the doctor away, but apples still provide a number of health benefits, including staving off constipation and controlling weight,” Gidwaney says. He also suggests peanut butter as a source of protein.
4. Balance your cholesterol levels
Gidwaney says more people are falling in love with almonds for their health benefits. “[Almonds] help with respiratory and heart disorders, anemia, impotency, and diabetes, to name a few. Regular consumption can also help support healthy hair and skin and balance cholesterol levels”, he says.
5. Cut down on sugar
The good news is you can still eat chocolate. “If you must reach for sugar, go for dark chocolate,” he says. “Dark chocolate has significant concentrations of minerals such as potassium and magnesium, and it helps support heart health.”
