Lunchtime is back - workers told to take a break
March 22nd, 2013
Workers who regularly struggle to maintain concentration and motivation in the afternoons are being urged to make small changes to their daily lunchtime routines in a bid by us to boost the county’s productivity.
We are raising awareness of the importance of a dedicated lunch break through their latest healthy eating campaign, ‘Lunchtime is back’. A recent survey by BBC Breakfast revealed 60% of workers regularly eat their lunch at their desk with a further two thirds admitting to taking less than 30 minutes for lunch, despite being entitled to a full break.
Steven Lee-Foster, Director of Live Well Suffolk says: “It is an established fact that a healthier workforce is more productive and motivated so there is a big incentive for employers to get involved and support their staff to be as healthy as they can be. Taking a lunch break to recharge your batteries is a good investment of time.”
He added: “Live Well Suffolk is providing businesses with free information packs during this campaign and our trained dietitians are available to visit any Suffolk employer to advise staff on healthy eating.”
Karen Davies, one of our trained dietitians added: “When you eat at your desk you aren’t really focused on the quality or quantity of your food, and can end up eating more than you may think which may lead to weight gain. By limiting sugary snacks and basing lunchtime food on starchy carbohydrates you’ll be able to maintain your blood sugar level, helping you feel fuller for longer and keep your concentration during the afternoon.”
One local company, who is supporting the ‘Lunchtime is back’ campaign, is Ipswich Building Society. With over 100 employees across their head office and branch network, the Society knows that a healthy, positive workforce will result in a better customer experience for their members.
Paul Winter, Chief Executive of Ipswich Building Society says: “We fully support any campaign which raises awareness of the importance of a healthy workplace. It is very important for staff to take a full lunch break so they are refreshed and prepared for the afternoon. It’s great to see Live Well Suffolk take the initiative and work with local businesses and we would encourage as many companies as possible to get involved with this campaign.”
We are making free information packs available for employers to encourage staff to take a lunch break and eat nutritiously. Each pack contains posters, leaflets, prompt cards and recipe suggestions to help employees on their way.
There’s also a wealth of new information, apps and videos as well as healthy lunch recipes available here or alternatively telephone 01473 229292.
