Everyone needs food to live as it is one of the basic necessities of life. But have you ever wondered how food determines your level of productivity? This is where the saying ‘you are what you eat’ comes to mind.

So, in this report, we shall be looking at how food plays a critical role in our daily work performance, not just as fuel to drive our energy.

Research has shown that foods with certain nutrients provide better energy than others, and when you eat foods with the wrong composition, it could affect you negatively.

Findings in a 2021 Journal of Applied Psychology show that nighttime unhealthy eating choices result in less productivity the next day.

In order to have a productive day, you’ll need to eat foods that can help increase your focus, memory, and stabilise your mood.

Below are foods that can boost your productivity at work.

Foods rich in carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for our bodies. For example, brown rice has more nutrients than white rice and helps to fuel the body longer, aiding workplace productivity. Whole grains also provide magnesium, which in turn helps cognition; and dark chocolate, which contains flavonoids, provides antioxidant effects to the brain.

Fruits and vegetables

You can never go wrong with fruits and veggies. Examples of fruits that help boost your productivity levels are berries (contain antioxidants), bananas (potassium and carbohydrates provide long lasting energy), apples and leafy greens.

Foods rich in protein

Foods rich in protein provide energy that boosts productivity. Examples of these foods are nuts and seeds, whole grains, poultry and eggs, lean meat and fish. Dairy foods also provide protein supply to the body.

Lots of water

Health experts say when the body is dehydrated by just two percent, it can lower cognitive performance and result in short-term memory, visual tracking and arithmetical ability.

It is therefore advisable to drink enough water to keep your body hydrated throughout the day in order to maintain productivity.

In summary, when you eat the right foods consistently, it gives you productive days, weeks and months, helps increase your focus and stabilises your mood.

Do have a nice weekend.

Photo source: IITA