Why should companies take care of employees’ nutrition at the workplace?

In the Global Talent Shortage background, the employer’s image as one taking care of employees’ well-being is becoming very important. Rates of obesity, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease are not stopping to grow everywhere in Europe, and Switzerland is not immune to that trend. Healthy nutrition is the most important preventive and curing medicine, and the population is increasingly aware of healthy food. 

Nevertheless, many fail to act on that knowledge. Eating at work, where people spend around 50%-60% of their awake time, contributes significantly to that failure. That is why sensibilisation on what is healthy nutrition is not sufficient. An attractive employer should create a workplace environment nurturing healthy nutrition and lifestyle.

Benefits of creating a workplace supporting healthy nutrition

Reduced anxiety and stress 

Consuming simple carbs like sugary drinks, sweets, and white bread creates insulin fluctuations followed by mood swings. Eating complex carbs releases serotonin in the brain, which has a calming effect. 

Boosted immunity and reduced absenteeism

Research shows both physical inactivity and unhealthy eating often lead to lost productivity, including days off of work due to illness or disability.

Camaraderie and teamwork

Research has shown that food time spent together, especially when people enjoy the food, creates an environment that builds deeper links between them, fostering teamwork and creativity. Best ideas are born not in the meeting rooms but during informal communication. 

Improved concentration and productivity

Consuming complex carbs, colourful fruits and vegetables and well-cooked proteins fosters concentration as these foods influence smooth glucose fluctuations and nourish healthy gut microbiota, affecting better concentration and brain sharpness.

How to create a workplace supporting healthy nutrition

If you are serious about healthy nutrition at the workplace, you should create an environment of Healthy Food Enjoyment. Limit as much as possible the unhealthy junk food distractions. Some ways to promote better eating include:

• Switch food company vendors – If your vending machines are full of sodas, crackers, and other processed foods, see the cost of bringing in a vendor with healthier options.
• Provide a fruit and veggie bowl – Keep fresh fruits and veggies on hand for staffers to help themselves whenever they need a snack. Let them know they’re welcome to it!
• Skip the junk food at meetings – Request that workers and leadership avoid doughnuts, cakes, bagels, and other processed foods for breakfast meetings. Instead, supply fresh fruit like apples, oranges, bananas, water, and tea over sugary coffees. 
• Organise healthy lunch breaks by providing the possibility to purchase affordable complete lunches at work. Check the short guide on organising healthy lunch breaks at your workplace without high upfront costs.
• Make it fun. What about weekly morning breakfasts when team members can bring their favourite breakfast food? Make sure that healthy grains, natural no, sugar yoghurts, fruits and vegetables are available.

A team who eat well become stronger

There’s no denying eating choices have an impact on health. From brain fog to stomach pain and energy to efficiency, the food you fuel your body with does matter. However, you can’t force your employees to eat the rainbow with every meal. But you can encourage them by offering them resources, opportunities and healthy options when feasible.