Is your desk job wreaking havoc on your weight loss goals? Aside from the health issues of a sedentary job in itself, there are a number of ways your job could be making it difficult to lose weight, starting with the afternoon slump.
Chances are, 2 or 3-o-clock rolls around and you find yourself in search of the nearest caffeine or sugar fix, no matter how many calories are in it. Instead of reaching for a candy bar, energy drink, or cup of coffee – which is probably full of cream and sugar – opt for pistachio nuts or a hard-boiled egg instead. You need protein to get through the afternoon slump, not more sugar.
A study published in the journal Neuron notes that amino acids, the building blocks of protein, are better at stimulating the brain cells that help keep us awake than any other nutrient. Plus, protein doesn’t cause a spike in insulin like sugar does, and can even help you burn more calories. It’s a win-win!
If you still can’t stop thinking about your usual candy bar or other afternoon treat, go for a walk. According to researchers at the University of Exeter, employees who took a brisk 15-minute walk ate half as much chocolate afterward as those who stayed at their desk. The theory is that the natural boost from walking may be enough to keep people from craving sugary treats for energy.
Try and apply both of these tips to your workday for one week, and see if it makes a difference. Sometimes it’s the little changes that make the biggest difference!
