We all know the feeling: you are pressed for time and hurriedly working on that important project, all while ignoring your stomach, which is growling so loudly that co-workers think your pet is under your desk. Even though you are a
busy gal, when it is time for lunch, go eat! Work will still be there when you get back.
The longer you put off lunch, the more likely you are to grab those
unhealthy snack foods advertised to put hunger in its place. It can be tempting to finish up a task and get it out of the way, but be careful you are not compromising your health in the meantime. Missing meals means missing nutrients, which can leave you feeling tired and hungry. Giving your body fuel refreshes your energy and productivity.
Pay Attention To Pace
If you have waited until you are as hungry as a wolf, you will most likely eat like one. Most people eat too fast and end up taking in too many calories before their body can tell them they have had enough. It takes approximately 20 minutes from the time you start eating for your brain to send out
signals of fullness. Leisurely eating allows ample time to trigger the signal from your brain that you are full. Moreover, it is harder for your digestive system to function properly when you eat too fast, resulting in poor digestion, indigestion and
heartburn.
Steer Clear of Heavy Food
Instead of waiting to eat a large lunch in the middle of the day, bring a
yogurt to your desk before lunch and an apple back with you after lunch. If you do not work at a desk, leave a healthy snack at your work station to nibble on, or keep a snack handy for your morning and afternoon breaks. Smart snacking means being mindful of your portions. Smart munching between meals can actually reduce your overall caloric intake by curbing
overeating at mealtime.
