During the pandemic, remote work became the new norm, blurring the boundaries between work and personal life. For many, this change led to mindless snacking and skipped meals, facilitated by the proximity to the kitchen and the convenience of ordering food online. Consequently, there was an increase in the consumption of processed and unhealthy foods.
Madhura Laxman Gurav, Dietician, Head of Wellness - Truworth Wellness, stated that as per her app, the number of monthly queries regarding diet and nutrition, including weight gain, vitamin D and B12 deficiencies, increased by 80% in 2020 alone. She said that many people randomly latch on to diet strategies like intermittent fasting and keto diets, which are often unsustainable unless guided by a dietitian or expert. They may not be suitable for individuals and could even have long-term negative effects on overall health.
As the world gradually shifts back from endless virtual meetings and digital communication to in-person interactions, and as office cafeterias start to serve shared meals again, there is a unique opportunity for companies to aid their employees in renewing social bonds while focusing on comprehensive well-being.
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Here are some strategies that corporations can adopt to enhance overall employee well-being with a focus on nutrition:
Encourage
Gurav stated that leaders can promote frequent break-out sessions with snacks, aiding employees in making mindful decisions. "They can introduce wellness initiatives like nutrition challenges, potluck events, or fitness activities during lunch breaks," she stated. She added that encouraging the formation of wellness groups or clubs where employees can exchange healthy recipes, meal prep tips, and fitness objectives could be beneficial.
"Creating shared eating spaces where employees can gather and partake in meals together can foster a sense of unity, boost morale, and encourage social interaction within the office setting," she highlighted.
Enable
"Partnership with local restaurants or vendors to provide a wide range of healthy food options in the office cafeteria can ensure employees' access to affordable, nutritious meals, reducing reliance on external food sources," said Gurav. She added that initiating wellness programs that subsidise healthy meals or offer meal allowances can encourage healthier eating habits. Resources and induction access for in-house snack preparation can further promote better nutrition choices.
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Educate
"Organising sessions by nutrition experts can enlighten employees about the significance of a balanced diet," said Gurav. She added that they can be educated about common nutritional concerns such as portion control, mindful snacking, intuitive eating, emotional eating, stress-induced eating, and the advantages of integrating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into their daily diet.
"By this, employees can get personalised dietary advice based on individual requirements. Additionally, workshops or seminars on mindful eating, with the involvement of volunteers, can help highlight the benefits of enjoying every mouthful, slow eating, and being aware of hunger and satiety cues," said Gurav.
Conclusion
As companies return to in-office work, it is critical to consider the altered eating patterns of employees and actively advocate for wellness and better nutrition. By prioritising employee health, companies can establish a supportive and flourishing work atmosphere, benefiting both the employees and the organisation. This strategy results in enhanced performance, increased job satisfaction, and long-term success.
[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider to get a thorough diagnosis and treatment as per your health needs.]
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