Can Brunch Boost Workplace Productivity?
What and when we eat, and how much, can impact various aspects of our lives, from weight changes to brainpower and alertness. Having a good breakfast is essential to kickstart your day, but is adding brunch necessary or excessive? Are several smaller meals better than three large ones? Should we snack between meals, or wait no matter how hungry we get? The answers to these questions vary depending on individual factors like your natural hunger patterns, exercise routine, lifestyle, and whether you’re trying to lose or gain weight. Both brunch and snacking have their pros and cons, so it’s best to experiment and see what suits you.
**For Those Who Skip Breakfast:**
If you often skip breakfast, it’s time to change that habit! You should try to eat something in the morning, even if it’s just a piece of toast or a muffin. However, if you do miss breakfast, having a good brunch can boost your productivity. Your brain and body need energy to function well, and food provides that energy. If brunch is your first meal of the day, make it count with whole grains for fiber, eggs, cheese, or nuts for protein, and fruits or veggies for Vitamin C. Consider a bacon and avocado sandwich on seeded whole grain bread or a cheese and tomato toastie. Tomatoes are also rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that protects your brain cells from damage.
**For Big Breakfast Lovers:**
Starting your day with a hearty breakfast can make you feel energized and alert. Morning is the best time for your body to handle complex carbohydrates like glucose, so it’s a good idea to fill up then. If you have a big breakfast around seven every morning, you might not feel hungry until lunchtime. However, following up a big breakfast with a big brunch can make you feel sleepy and sluggish, especially if you consume too many carbs. Instead, try having a handful of raisins or a small piece of fruit around eleven to keep your energy levels up until lunch.
**For Constant Snackers:**
If you prefer to snack throughout the day rather than sticking to three main meals, brunch is just an extension of your usual pattern. There’s no definitive answer yet on whether this eating style is better or worse, so feel free to continue if it works for you. Just ensure you stay active—use your lunch break to take a walk or hit the gym, rather than just sitting at your desk all day.
Ultimately, the best approach to eating is the one that fits your individual needs and lifestyle. Experiment with different routines to find out what makes you feel the best.
