By: Chrisie Allemand, RD, LD/N

We spend a large amount of our waking hours working, so it is no surprise that your work site nutrition habits have a major effect on your health and your waistline.

Whether it’s the convenience of vending machines, or coworkers celebrating another birthday with cupcakes or donuts, or triple venti caramel macchiatos, you can steer clear of the pitfalls of junk food and choose healthier options with a few guidelines.

Here are 6 easy steps to improve your workplace nutrition habits:

• Toss the junk.  
  Empty your desk drawers of chips, candy and all other treats you may reach for at the slightest bit of stress, hunger or even thirst.
• Replace the junk with smart options. 
  Add healthy snacks to the places where you spend the majority of your day.  
• Use your alarm.  
  Healthy eating is not just about food.  Water is your ally for weight-loss and anti-aging.  Set a reminder and aim to drink 5 – 10 ounces every two hours.  
• Make time for your meal.  
  According to the American Dietetic Association, 70% of Americans eat at their desk several times a week.  Not only does eating at your desk encourage mindless eating, it prevents you from getting out of your work environment.  
• Plan ahead.  
  Bring your leftovers from dinner the night before as your lunch.  This will save you much time and money.  After you’re done with dinner, simply portion out your lunch for the next day and grab that container on your way out of the door in the morning.
• Find a healthy work buddy. 
  Friends and fitness go hand in hand, whether it’s a cardio partner, someone to share healthy recipes with, or someone in your office that has mastered the polite decline of the aforementioned cupcakes, a friend can help you succeed.