Working as a nurse practitioner can be a stressful and time-consuming job. There are always things that seem more important at the moment, however, it is critical that you make your own needs a high priority. In order to be most productive in your line of work, you must have enough energy to get through the day. In order to get energy, you need to ensure that you have enough rest, food, and water. The food that you decide to make should be healthy in order to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Here are some of the top tips you should consider when planning what to eat at work.
1. Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time
You may also need to eat a meal or two during your work schedule if you are a nurse practitioner. It is important that you plan your meals and make them ahead of time to ensure that you are eating healthy. If you do not plan your meals you may be forced to eat expensive and unhealthy cafeteria food. Using your leftovers from the night before or making yourself something special in the morning can help you eat healthily. Here are some of the best recipes you can make ahead of time to eat healthy and quick.
2. Pack Portable Snacks
Working as an NNP often requires that you work long twelve hours shifts (or even longer). If you are working this long, you will definitely need a few snacks throughout the day to keep you going. You should always pack portable snacks in your locker or another area. Easy snacks allow you to feel great and avoid junk food. Some ideas for portable snacks may include yogurt, fruit, smoothies, hummus, and more. You can store the cold items in the fridge and bring them on the go with you. Snacks don’t always require chopping and packaging. Many grocery and convenience stores sell individually packed foods like:
- Protein boxes
- Hummus & crackers
- Veggies and dip
- Sargento cheese and nuts
- Tuna and crackers
- Fresh fruit
3. Eat Healthy and Filling Meals Before Work
Take the time to eat before you work. If you can eat healthy and filling meals before you leave home, you may be more likely to avoid junk food when you are at work. Bacon, egg, and cheese biscuits or greasy burgers and fries are not as tempting when you are not hungry. Plus, the right foods can give you the energy you need to get through the day and help you concentrate more.
4. Find Something To Do When Stressed
Recent studies show that most people eat snacks when they are bored or stressed. While we don’t expect that you are not necessarily going to get bored at work, stress is just a part of the job.If you notice yourself reaching for junk food, you should stop and think about why you are eating. If you are hungry, try to find a healthy snack. If you are eating because you are stressed you should stop and find something else to do. A simple five minutes break or a walk may help you feel more relaxed and lessen your urge to eat.
As an NNP, you already understand the importance of good nutrition for your patients. But remember, YOUR nutrition is just as important as the babies you take care of every day. These tips can help you be more successful in your goals to eat right. Healthy eating gives you more energy, helps you think faster, and allows you to work better under pressure.
The saying “just say no” is easier said than done. What tips can you share that work for you?
