5 ways to get healthier at work from the comfort of your desk

Brought to you by Flahavan’s #OfficeOats.

Healthy habits have to start somewhere.

Sitting at a desk for hours on end isn’t an ideal scenario health wise so it pays to find ways to make it a slightly healthier proposition. Most offices aren’t exactly designed to promote great health. Think of it as the desk plan – it’s all about making the most of your day by changing your habits when you’re stuck at your desk. So here are a few simple tips to help you get the ball rolling.

Drink more water

Yeah, yeah – we all know we should be drinking more water but how many of us actually drink the two-litres we’re supposed to have every day. Staying hydrated is vital for simple things like flushing out toxins and aiding digestion. Unfortunately, air-conditioned offices and too much coffee can also help to dehydrate you. One solution is to invest in a water bottle and use it to track how much you drink over the course of your workday.

Eat breakfast

There’s a reason that people say it’s the most important meal of the day. Take the time to get something before work or to eat something on your morning break. A bowl of porridge or some fruit can help to fuel your brain and body. It restores glucose levels, which is vital to allow the brain to function. Plus, people who eat breakfast are more likely to avoid unhealthy food choices later in the day. Eating breakfast also has long-term health benefits like reducing obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Avoid al desko dining

You’ve a deadline coming up, your boss is screaming at you and there just aren’t enough hours in the day. It’s no wonder that people get into the habit of “al desko,” lunches but it has consequences. We’re distracted by our computer when eating at our desks so your body doesn’t fully register how much you are eating. People also tend to eat unhealthier foods like processed meals at their desk and are more likely to end up being tempted by the nearby vending machine. Besides, it helps to stretch your legs and get some fresh air at lunchtime. Taking a proper break can actually leave you feeling more energised, which can help you be more productive.

Stretch it out

Sitting in the one place all day obviously isn’t ideal. Getting up for a quick walk around helps but some simple stretches at your desk can also reduce the pain or discomfort caused by poor posture or repetitive movements. Some simple stretches at your desk can help to alleviate musculoskeletal issues. It might look a little weird at first but it’s much better than suffering from back pain!

Eat healthy snacks

It’s easy to get into the habit of eating chocolate, crisps or other high fat or high sugar snacks at your desk. They’re handy when you want a quick hit but it’s not a good habit to get into. Ditch these unhealthy options for fruit or nuts. It’s much better for you and it’s easy to do if you just stock up at the weekend. Boredom at work can lead to mindless snacking but at least this is one way to hit your five-a-day target. Flahavan's Quick Oats range of porridge is designed to give you the fuel you need for the day ahead. Flahavan's quick oats porridge convenience range is available in a drum, sachets or pots format, with natural or a variety of flavours to choose from. Perfect porridge, microwave ready in two minutes. Brought to you by Flahavan’s #OfficeOats.