Studies show a strong relationship between the physical and social environments of the workplace and health behaviors of employees. Here are a few simple tips to try at your workplace!

When bringing treats for birthdays or other celebrations, choose healthy options:

• Fresh fruit that’s precut or easy to peel and eat (bananas, clementines, apples and pears are easy options!)
• Cut veggies with hummus, bean dip, or salsa for dip.
• Unsweetened dried fruits, nuts, seeds and/or homemade granola in a trail mix.
• Trays featuring cheese, whole wheat crackers (Triscuits are an easy choice!) and fresh veggies.
• Pop plain popcorn and season with a drizzle of maple syrup and cinnamon or a little butter and salt.
• Yogurt with fresh berries, bananas, or other cut fruit
• Whole grain breakfast breads (substitute whole wheat flour when baking!)

When planning catered meals for work events or trainings:

• Remember Myplate! Make half the plate fruits and vegetables. Vary your vegetables and focus on whole fruits! Limit added sugar or sweeteners, saturated fat and
  sodium. Choose whole grains. Provide reasonable portions. Meals served should follow the MyPlate model.
• Serve plain water as the main beverage. Eliminate sugar sweetened beverages – this includes soda, sweetened tea, energy drinks, and flavored waters. Healthier low-calorie choices abound, including water, skim milk, and unsweetened tea or coffee.
• Choose lean meats or offer vegetarian choices! The United Nations has declared 2016 the year of the pulses (beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils) – live it up! Choose healthy preparation options: grilled, baked, poached, roasted, braised, or broiled. Avoid fried foods.
• Do you need dessert? Many people consume far more added sugars than recommended – skip it or use fresh fruit for a sweet after-meal treat. If you feel you must serve a dessert, serve small portions.
• Avoid offering a candy bowl – added sugar adds up!
• Support healthy eating for everyone – create settings where healthy choices are available and accessible to staff and the community members we serve.