Dieting experts routinely warn about snacking in front of the TV, but what might even be worse, according to research conducted by Business Librarian Mike DePue, is our eating habits while we work.

The National Restaurant Association reports that 89% admit to snacking during work hours. More than half of the respondents, DePue says, “opt for the terrible triumvirate of candy, chips and doughnuts.” The latter has even been called “the official food of corporate America.”

One web site, toomanychefs.com, asks: “Are you likely to be more motivated by a bunch of lettuce with oil and vinegar or a decadent fried jelly-filled mound of lard and sugar.”

The office birthday party has been singled out as the nutritional downfall of many workers. Commented comedian and former pastry chef John Hargrave: “Co-workers tear the cake apart with the rabid ferocity of wolves, their faces covered in decorative yellow roses and chocolate crumbs.”

Well, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but recent studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between moderate or severe obesity and health insurance cost increases, lost work days and workplace injury.

Healthy alternatives, such as appropriate munchies in briefcase, backpack or purse, and the availability in most workplaces of refrigerators in break rooms allows for fresh fruit, cherry or grape tomatoes or low-fat cottage cheese or yogurt.

“Even with healthy alternatives, when you eat while working,” says DePue, “it’s likely to be ‘mindless’ eating. Your body is going through the motions, but your brain isn’t fully aware you’re eating. This can lead to taking in more calories than your body really needs.”

DePue covers this subject in detail in the latest issue of “Minding Your Business at the Library,” the two-sided publication available at any of the eight library branches, or
read online at thelibrary.org.

DePue is also happy to schedule appointment for a personal orientation to the Library District’s business services. Call him at 883-5310, extension 135, or e-mail mikedep@thelibrary.org.

BOOKS ON FOOD HABITS

“The Way We Eat: Why Our Food Choices Matter,” by Peter Singer and Jim Mason

“Guide to Healthy Fast-Food Eating,” by Hope Warshaw

“Gospel of Food: Everything You Think You Know About Food Is Wrong,” by Barry Glassner

“Everything I Ate: A Year in the Life of My Mouth,” by Tucker Shaw

Jeanne C. Duffey, the community relations director for the Springfield-Greene County Library District, can be reached at jeanned@thelibrary.org.