Boosting Productivity Through Healthy Eating Habits: Key Findings and Actionable Steps

Unhealthy diets, along with smoking, lack of exercise, and stress, have been found to diminish workplace productivity, according to studies conducted in 2012, 2015, and 2021. This article highlights the key data from each study, emphasizing the correlation between unhealthy diets and decreased productivity, while providing practical steps for individuals and teams to adopt a healthier diet and enhance productivity.

2012 Population Health Management Study A study conducted in 2012 surveyed 19,803 employees from three large companies and revealed that unhealthy individual lifestyle choices can lead to significant losses in productive work time. The study found that employees with unhealthy diets were 66% more likely to experience decreased productivity compared to those who regularly consumed whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, occasional exercisers were 50% more likely to report lower productivity compared to regular exercisers, while smokers were 28% more likely to suffer from productivity declines.

The research also identified that employees facing difficulty exercising during work hours were 96% more likely to experience productivity drops. Furthermore, those who didn’t believe their work environment supported their physical and emotional well-being were more likely to see a decrease in productivity. The study emphasized the link between low well-being, poor health behaviors, elevated health risks, chronic diseases, and productivity loss.

Key Takeaway: Unhealthy diets can lead to decreased productivity at work.

Other Factors that Decrease Productivity The research indicated several other factors that contribute to decreased productivity, including insufficient time for job duties, lack of technological support, and financial worries. Productivity loss was highest among employees aged 30 to 39 and lowest among those aged 60 and older. It was more prevalent among women than men and more pronounced among separated, divorced, or widowed individuals compared to married colleagues. Clerical or office workers in the service and transportation industries experienced the highest productivity loss, while those in industries like farming, forestry, fishing, construction, and mining had lower levels.

Tip: Pay attention to daily habits, energy levels, and focus to identify your most productive work time. Identify obstacles interfering with time management.

2015 British Journal of Health and Psychology Study A study published in 2015 in the British Journal of Health and Psychology analyzed the effects of fruit and vegetable consumption on feelings of engagement, meaning, and purpose. While these feelings may not directly impact workplace productivity, the study suggested that increased fruit and vegetable consumption could positively influence employee engagement.

Among 405 adults, a 13-day increase in fruit and vegetable consumption led to enhanced creativity, curiosity, and overall well-being. Unhealthy foods showed fewer positive effects on these measures. The implication is clear: employees who eat better are more likely to be productive.

FYI: Managers can boost engagement by providing a positive employee experience and ensuring employees feel valued.

2021 Journal of Applied Psychology Study A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology in 2021 revealed that unhealthy eating choices in the evening can result in decreased productivity the next day. Tracking 97 full-time employees over 10 days, the study found that those who consumed unhealthy foods the night before work were more likely to avoid work-related situations, offer less help, and exhibit reduced engagement with their teammates and supervisors. These disengaged employees were less productive overall.

Key Takeaway: Unhealthy nighttime eating can decrease productivity the following day.

How to Achieve a Healthy Diet that Boosts Productivity The correlation between health, diet, and productivity is clear. However, making lasting changes to one’s diet can be challenging. Here are practical steps to transition to a healthy diet effectively:

1. Ease into it: Gradually swap out unhealthy meals for healthier alternatives over time. Start by replacing a few meals each week and gradually increase the number of healthy meals.
2. Add fruits and vegetables slowly: Incorporate small amounts of fruits and vegetables into your meals. For example, pair a burger with a side salad consisting of kale, roasted carrots, and sliced strawberries. Eventually, replace unhealthy options with healthier alternatives.
3. Don’t go it alone: Establish an employee health and wellness program to foster a team effort. Organize healthy communal lunches and encourage team members to track their habits and support each other. Sharing victories and struggles can inspire and help everyone make permanent changes.
4. Cheat occasionally: Enjoy occasional indulgences without guilt. Eating small amounts of junk food or sweets in moderation won’t harm overall health. Excess consumption is the concern. Treat yourself occasionally without compromising your long-term goals.

By implementing these steps, individuals and teams can adopt a healthier diet and experience increased productivity in the workplace.