The consumption of food is both a biological need and an activity done in leisure. In many celebrations such as weddings, birthdays and such, a cake might be the centerpiece of a packed feast table full of various meals like spaghetti, potatoes, etc. Wealthier people might go out for gourmet food or haute cuisine, while middle to lower-middle-class people might be satisfied with a simple fare of pizza and beer with friends. The cuisine of our CME cruise conferences are optimized for a healthy diet. All in all, food consumption feels good because of the pleasure chemicals produced to reward it, and humans often seek out food when celebrating positive events. However, problems like stress-eating exist, where food becomes a source of comfort at the expense of nutrition.

 

The Need for Salt and Fuel

 

Stress induces the production of cortisol in the body, which in turn creates the compulsion to consume salty or sugary foods. A stressful work environment initialized a physical need to satiate cravings that are detrimental to the worker in question. As such, the “diet” of a stressed professional is often composed of “tasty” foods like donuts, burgers or candy bars, food that superficially satisfies the body while increasing risks for obesity, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and other serious illnesses. Such meals and drinks (like coffee, sodas and energy drinks) provide only a temporary boost before creating problems in the long run.

 

Reestablishing Health

 

When it comes to work stress, there are multiple ways to combat the slow deterioration of one’s health. In the context of food, a proper diet plan is essential when working in a stressful environment, such as a busy office or even a hospital. Fatty fish and avocado are a good food to partake in on a stressful day, and snacks like dark chocolate (the less sugary, more bitter kind) and banana can quickly fulfill your craving outside of lunch hours. Other activities can also be done to help with stress, such as yoga. Our own CME cruises contain a fitness regimen designed to boost health in between lectures.

 

Conclusion

 

Eating the food you love is rewarding, but in the context of a workplace, eating can be more optimal, for the sake of one’s health and work efficiency. The diets of professionals in stressful work environments can sometimes be overlooked, and changing one’s choice of meals and snacks can provide a small push to a less dissatisfied self.