Does stress cause you to overeat?  If so, the current economic climate may be adding pounds to your waistline.  According to a CareerBuilder study, one in ten workers reported increased snacking during the day.  Overall, 43 percent claim to have gained weight at their current employment.

Unhealthy eating and other non-beneficial habits can lower your productivity.  At a time when you are already worrying, this is not the best approach.  What can you do?

1.  Start with a good breakfast at home, not a quick sugar and caffeine fix at your desk.

2.  Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated.  Sodas are not a replacement for the water we need.

3.  Be aware of your eating habits.  Know how many calories are in the meals and snacks you consume.  Awareness will help you stay on track in meeting your weight goals.

4.  Limit the stress caused by multitasking throughout the day.  Stress can lead to overeating as a way of compensating.

5.  Build exercise into your day.  A workout before you head to the office or during your lunch break can improve job performance, according to researchers at England’s University of Bristol.  On those days of exercise, subjects found the following:

• 79% reported improved mental performance and better relationships with colleagues
• 74% said they managed workloads better
• 21% reported better concentration and productivity
• 25% worked through the day without unscheduled breaks