Why it is important to provide healthy and convenient food choices at the workplace
Providing healthy food at the workplace is essential to any successful business strategy. Eating healthy food boosts employee morale and productivity, resulting in better performance. Food keeps us going, it is evident, but the connection between healthy food choices and business performance is deeper than that.
Food is closely connected with mood; it is a scientific fact
Providing healthy food options influences team dynamics and a healthy office environment. What we eat can significantly impact our emotional well-being and mood positively and negatively. Some foods can help boost our mood by increasing the production of “feel-good” neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in regulating our emotions and mood. Foods rich in certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and magnesium, can help support the production of these neurotransmitters.
On the other hand, some foods can have a negative impact on our mood by causing fluctuations in blood sugar levels and energy levels. Highly processed foods, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fats can all contribute to a decline in mood and energy levels.
Hunger can be connected to aggressive behaviour in humans due to the physiological and psychological effects of hunger on the body and mind. When we are hungry, our blood sugar levels can drop, causing irritability, frustration, and even anger. For example, in one study, hungry participants were more likely to exhibit aggression.
Helping employees maintain a healthy and balanced diet that includes nutrient-rich foods can help support a positive mood, emotional well-being and, ultimately healthy office environment.
Sharing good food is a social event where teams get together
People are likely to establish connections while sharing good food because it is a social event that brings people together, often for the purpose of enjoyment and relaxation. Sharing food can also be a way for people to bond, as it can create an intimate atmosphere and allows people to open up. Additionally, it can be a way for people to learn about one another and build a sense of community. Healthy and, at the same time, enjoyable food can unite people with different food habits. It is important to consider offering options for vegans and vegetarians.
Investing in well-being at the workplace contributes to attracting talent
Well-being at the workplace is a complex notion; providing healthy food choices and developing healthy eating habits is part of the concept, along with fostering physical activity and mental health. Consider the following while
- Invest in a convenient, well equipped and relaxing space where team members can engage with each other during breaks
- Provide easy access to healthy fresh food and snacks
- Consider satisfying different food values, including vegan and vegetarian
- Don’t forget about drinks because healthy hydration is a part of holistic nutrition
Providing access to healthy food at the workplace cannot be overstated. Healthy food can positively impact employee health, morale, productivity, and overall job satisfaction, leading to a healthier, happier and more productive workplace. Providing healthy food options benefits not only the individual employee, but also the company as a whole. Companies should make it a priority to offer nutritious and convenient meal options to their employees.
