Poll confirms employees work through lunchtimes

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The results of a poll commissioned by BBC Breakfast show that 54% of office workers regularly work through their lunch break, with 53% saying there is a widespread culture of working through lunch breaks in their office.

The British Dietetic Association (BDA) is the UK’s leading organisation for food and nutrition professionals and also has a stream of work called Nutrition in the Workplace.  They help support employers throughout the UK to improve employees’ health and wellbeing , in addition to improving levels of sick days taken.

Speaking about the results of the BBC Breakfast poll, Alison Clark, Spokesperson for the BDA, said:

“Of course, from time to time we have all sat at our desk and worked through a lunchtime or two.  However, this should not be allowed to become the norm.  Indeed, eating lunch at your desk should be an occasional occurrence.”

“Eating at your desk can be a fast track to piling on unwanted weight.  For example, it is far too easy to partake in a bit of ‘mindless eating’ while working away at your desk.  While your mind is fixed firmly on tasks at hand, your actual hand is automatically dipping into a whole raft of treats lying around on your desk.  It’s not just about weight.  Wellbeing is also very important to maintain.”

“On average, someone with a full-time job will spend around 60% of their time in the workplace and will eat and drink at least a third of their daily calorie allowance during this time.  Too often, stress and certain cultures in the workplace take priority over healthy food choices and ensuring that employees’ health and wellbeing needs are met.  This is a very important issue that all employers should address.”

The BDA has also pulled together some top tips:

  • Snack on fruit during the day.
  • Oatcakes are great snacks, full of slow-release energy.
  • Take healthy packed lunches.
  • Vegetable soup can make you feel fuller and can be one of your your 5-a-day.
  • If you’re stressed try to keep your blood sugar levels stable by eating regular, healthy meals.
  • Stay hydrated and be conscious of calories from sugary drinks.
  • Take the stairs instead of the lift.

Why not also get in on the debate on our article “Should agents be allowed to eat at their desks?”

Author: Jo Robinson

Published On: 13th Feb 2013 - Last modified: 22nd Mar 2017
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