Before you head to the employee lounge and open the refrigerator, stop. Research has shown that the way we eat can impact our chances of being injured at work. From mental clarity and stamina to obesity, what we put in our mouths and its result on our bodies has a very real effect on our productivity and potential for injury. Read on for more information about how your diet impacts your risk of workplace injury.
Hypoglycemia
Many people experience feelings of lightheadedness or lethargy when we go too long without a meal. This can be attributed to low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. When we are hypoglycemic, our attention span shortens and the speed in which we process information is slowed. This can lead to errors which otherwise would not have occurred, and these errors can lead to injury.
Employees are encouraged to take their breaks when they are offered. Eat a small meal if you have time for nothing else. Get in the habit of packing a healthy lunch instead of running to the vending machine for a quick snack.
Lack of Protein
When we don’t have enough protein, we are sluggish and inattentive. This can greatly affect our safety at work. When we aren’t paying attention to what we are doing, we are putting ourselves at risk of accident. Consider eating a breakfast high in protein before work, especially if you know that your breaks will be few and far between.
Saturated Fats
A diet high in saturated fats has a negative impact on brain function. Skip the junk food and munch on raw fruits and vegetables. Grab a handful of nuts. Eat a small box of raisins. Munch on a granola bar. You have plenty of options that can take the place of your favorite junk food.
Hydration
Do you think hydration is unimportant? After all, you drink a dozen cups of coffee throughout the day. The next time you go to the coffee machine, turn toward the sink instead. A single percent decrease in hydration can lead to a 20 percent decrease in your level of productivity. Drink more water and less coffee, soda or juice.
You may not be what you eat, but what you eat is greatly affecting you and your productivity. It is also putting you in danger for injury. Paying attention to what you eat before, during and after work really can keep you safer.
If you need assistance with workers’ compensation in Charleston, call our office for a free case evaluation. We can tell you what you may qualify for and help you take the next steps. Call now.