Nutrition & Productivity
Everybody knows that eating a healthy balanced diet will help to maintain a healthy body weight and decrease your risk of certain diseases such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease.
However, what is commonly underestimated is the impact that a healthy diet can have on your mental health. A diet full of fruit, veg, whole grains, healthy fats and lean protein will increase productivity, alertness, concentration, mood and cognition.
Mental side effects of a poor diet:
- Irritability
- Decreased mental ability
- Fatigue
- Reduced cognition
- Increased stress and depression
- Anxiety
- Decreased productivity
- Lowered energy and mood
Productivity and overall wellbeing suffer as a result of poor nutrition and the above health consequences.
Productivity boosting nutrients:
A healthy diet is often associated with weight loss or maintenance, but eating well is just as important for your mental health. Because of this, aim to increase your intake of the following nutrients to boost productivity levels.
- FOLATE – Legumes, asparagus, eggs, leafy greens, beetroot
- OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS – Mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, anchovies, linseed, chia seeds, walnuts, soybeans
- VITAMIN C – Cantaloupe melon, citrus fruits, kiwi fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, berries, watermelon
- VITAMIN E – Vegetable oils, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, green leafy vegetables
Tips for better nutrition and productivity in and out of the workplace:
- Eat breakfast for a good kick start to your day
- Don’t skip meals
- Pack any main meals and snacks you may need for the day
- Instigate nutrition as a priority among your workplace
Of course consuming an unhealthy diet leads to a greater risk of obesity. Moreover, research has shown that people who are obese are more likely to experience insomnia and sleep apnea. These issues can cause ongoing health concerns and daytime fatigue, zapping you of energy and lowering productivity.
Eating a healthy and balanced diet will give you lifelong health benefits. Therefore, if there are areas of your diet that you know could be improved, aim to make changes little and often – this is the key to sustainability. Above all, choose things you enjoy eating and make the changes gradually. You will begin to reap rewards when it comes to your productivity levels as well as long-term health.
