Lisa Miller Client Service Practice Leader View Bio

Initiatives to Promote Nutrition

As the adage goes, “You are what you eat.”—which means unhealthy food leads to unhealthy people.

An unbalanced diet and poor nutrition can contribute to the following health problems:

  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Hypertension
  • Gout
  • Obesity

Nearly 35% of adults are obese—which, in turn, can increase the risks of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer.

The most effective way to minimize many of these health risks is to encourage your employees to adopt healthy, well-balanced diets. Good nutrition can positively affect their performance through the following ways:

  • Increased productivity
  • Increased mental cognition and focus
  • Reduced anxiety, stress, and depression

Activities to Promote Wellness

In order to achieve a well-balanced diet, there are two key ingredients: controlling portion size and choosing the best foods.

To help make healthy, nutritious meal decisions, consider taking these steps:

  • With cafeteria and vending machine options, chose healthy, nutritious options such as nuts, fresh, and dried fruits, water or tea, leaner lunchmeats, and fewer frozen or microwavable meals.
  • Choose fresh fruit and whole grain breakfast options—avoid sugary treats such as donuts or toaster pastries. According to the Institute for Health and Productivity Management (IHPM), nearly one-third of people skip breakfast.
    Without some food—regardless of whether or not it’s nutritious—will have reduced energy, productivity and focus.

A healthy diet can provide you with the energy and focus to be productive and efficient throughout the entire day!