Maintaining a healthy diet at work can be a challenge, especially when you’re constantly on the go and in need of a quick snack to keep you fueled throughout the day. However, snacking on unhealthy foods can leave one feeling sluggish and unproductive. In this blog, we will discuss how a nutrition wellness program can offer healthy food options. You will also find some of the best healthy snacks for work that a workplace can offer or suggest to its employees. We will also discuss some tips to organize and the benefits of eating healthy as well.
Contents
- 1 What Are Nutrition Wellness Programs?
- 2 Tips For Offering Healthy Snacks In Wellness Program
- 3 14 Options For Tasty Yet Healthy Snacks For Work
- 3.1 1. Fresh fruit
- 3.2 2. Nuts and seeds
- 3.3 3. Vegetables and hummus
- 3.4 4. Greek yogurt
- 3.5 5. Hard-boiled eggs
- 3.6 6. Whole grain crackers & cheese
- 3.7 7. Edamame
- 3.8 8. Popcorn
- 3.9 9. Roasted chickpeas
- 3.10 10. Dried fruit
- 3.11 11. Rice cakes with nut butter
- 3.12 12. Cottage cheese
- 3.13 13. Trail mix
- 3.14 14. Smoothies
- 4 Benefits Of Healthy Snacks Options At Work
- 5 Conclusion
What Are Nutrition Wellness Programs?
Nutritional wellness programs for the workplace are designed to improve the overall health and well-being of employees by promoting healthy eating habits and providing education and resources on nutrition. These programs may include healthy food options in the workplace, nutrition workshops and seminars, access to registered dietitians or nutritionists, and incentives for healthy eating. The goal is to support employees in making healthier choices and ultimately improving their physical and mental health, which can also have a positive impact on workplace productivity and morale.
Tips For Offering Healthy Snacks In Wellness Program
Here are some tips to organize nutritional wellness programs for the workplace:
- Get employee input: Consider surveying employees to find out what types of healthy snacks they would like to see offered. This can help ensure that the snacks provided are appealing to employees and that they will be more likely to make healthy snack choices.
- Partner with a nutritionist: Partnering with a registered dietitian or nutritionist can provide valuable guidance on selecting healthy snack options and ensuring that they meet the nutritional needs of employees. They can also help with labeling snacks with their nutritional information.
- Offer a variety of options: It’s important to offer a variety of healthy snack options to meet the diverse tastes and preferences of employees. This can include fresh fruit, vegetables with hummus, nuts, whole grain crackers, low-fat yogurt, and more. Consider rotating the snack options to keep things interesting and exciting for employees.
- Label snacks with nutritional information: Clearly labeling snacks with their nutritional information can help employees make informed choices about what they are eating. This information can include calorie count, macronutrient breakdown, and any allergens present.
- Set a budget: When planning for a healthy snack program, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Consider the cost of the snacks, as well as any additional expenses such as containers, labels, and storage. Look for cost-effective options such as bulk purchasing and seasonal produce.
14 Options For Tasty Yet Healthy Snacks For Work
Here are some healthy snacks that are great for employees at any workplace:
1. Fresh fruit
Fresh fruit is a great snack option that can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Apples, bananas, oranges, berries, and grapes are all good choices because they are portable and easy to eat. Fruits can be eaten as a standalone snack or paired with other healthy options such as yogurt or nuts.
2. Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats and protein, making them an ideal snack to help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Almonds, cashews, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are all great options. It’s important to remember to portion control nuts and seeds because they are high in calories.
3. Vegetables and hummus
Vegetables such as carrots, celery, cucumber, and bell peppers are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy snack option. Pairing them with hummus provides added protein and flavor. Hummus can be made at home or purchased from a store. You can also try other dips like guacamole or salsa for a change.
4. Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is high in protein and makes a great snack option. It can be topped with fresh fruit or nuts for added flavor and nutrients. Choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt for a healthier option, and add natural sweetness with fruit or honey.
5. Hard-boiled eggs
Hard-boiled eggs are a quick and easy snack that can be made ahead of time. They are high in protein and provide essential nutrients such as vitamin D and choline. Eggs can be eaten alone or paired with vegetables or whole-grain crackers.
6. Whole grain crackers & cheese
Whole grain crackers are a good source of fiber, while cheese provides protein and calcium. Choose low-fat cheese options for a healthier snack. Pairing with fresh fruit or vegetables can make this snack more filling.
7. Edamame
Edamame is a great source of protein and fiber. It can be eaten hot or cold and makes a satisfying snack. You can season edamame with different flavors such as garlic or spicy seasoning for added taste.
8. Popcorn
Popcorn is a whole grain that is low in calories and high in fiber. It can be a great alternative to chips or crackers, but it’s important to choose air-popped popcorn instead of microwave popcorn which can contain added fat, salt, and artificial flavorings.
9. Roasted chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber. Roasting them in the oven with spices can create a crunchy and flavorful snack that is a healthier alternative to chips.
10. Dried fruit
Dried fruit can be a good option for a sweet snack that is high in fiber and nutrients. However, it’s important to choose varieties without added sugar and to eat them in moderation as they can be high in calories. Dried apricots, figs, and raisins are good options.
11. Rice cakes with nut butter
Rice cakes are a low-calorie option that can be paired with nut butter for added protein and healthy fats. Almond butter or peanut butter are good options as they are low in sugar and high in nutrients.
12. Cottage cheese
Cottage cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. It can be paired with fresh fruit or vegetables for added flavor and nutrients. Pineapple or cucumber slices are good options.
13. Trail mix
Trail mix can be a healthy snack option as long as it is made with unsalted nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. You can also add dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are good options.
14. Smoothies
Smoothies can be a healthy snack option that is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Use fresh or frozen fruits, Greek yogurt, and almond milk for a creamy and nutritious snack. Spinach or kale can be added for a boost of nutrients.
Benefits Of Healthy Snacks Options At Work
There are several benefits of having healthy snacks at work, including:
- Increased productivity: Eating healthy snacks can help boost energy levels and improve cognitive function, which can lead to increased productivity at work.
- Improved health: Eating nutrient-dense snacks can help improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
- Weight management: Healthy snacks can help regulate appetite and prevent overeating, which can contribute to weight management.
- Reduced stress: Eating healthy snacks can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Better mood: Nutrient-dense snacks can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide the body with the nutrients it needs to function properly, which can lead to a better mood.
- Improved focus: Healthy snacks can help improve cognitive function and concentration, which can improve focus and attention to tasks.
- Increased employee satisfaction: Offering healthy snacks at work can demonstrate a commitment to employee wellness, which can lead to increased employee satisfaction and retention.
Overall, having healthy snack options available at work can lead to a happier, healthier, and more productive workforce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having healthy snacks for work are important to maintain energy levels, improve productivity, and promote overall employee health and well-being. By choosing snacks that are low in added sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients, and instead opting for nutrient-dense options that are high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, you can help fuel the body throughout the workday. With a little planning and preparation, it’s easy to incorporate healthy snacking habits into the daily routine of your employees at work.
Employee wellness programs are the key to improving employee motivation, productivity, and retention. At MantraCare, we have a team of health experts, counselors, and coaches who serve corporate employees with 10+ wellbeing programs including EAP, Employee Diabetes Reversal, Corporate MSK, Employee Fitness, Corporate Yoga, and Employee meditation.
