The freelancing industry continues to roar as more people look for alternative means of income. A report by Forbes says there are over 56.7 million Americans in the freelancing sector, and the numbers keep growing. Some of the reasons for this upsurge include the freedom and flexibility that comes with freelance jobs. From freelance writing jobs, web designers, and developers, tutors to digital assistants, the opportunities are endless.
However, there are also risks to the freelancer lifestyle. You have to put in a lot of hours, and this affects your physical health and eating habits.
Many freelancers survive on junk and other unhealthy foods which affect their health. There’s a big risk of weight gain, high cholesterol, heart problems, among other health issues.
To mitigate the risks that come with the freelancing lifestyle, you need to develop the best nutritional habits. These will keep you out of danger and also help you work more effectively.
Below are some simple healthy nutritional tips you should consider as a freelancer:
1. Stock Fresh Food
Frozen food has become a staple in modern homes, yet it is unhealthy. If you are a freelancer, you should consider changing this and stocking fresh food for your meals. You have a lot of time on your hands, and you can pass by the market when relaxing in the evening.
Whipping a quick meal out of fresh food is easy, and you don’t need any special training. You can do this during the recommended breaks, and your body will thank you for it. This averts problems associated with processed foods, including weight gain, heart problems, among others.
2. Start With a Power Breakfast
It is common knowledge that breakfast is the most important meal. However, many people don’t have time for a healthy breakfast.
As a freelancer, you have more control over your day, and you should always start with a sturdy breakfast. Take time to prepare a nutritious breakfast because this can power you for hours.
Starting with a great breakfast meal also brightens your mood for the day. If you have a tough assignment for the day, make sure you go for healthy cereals to get the energy you need. Avoid coffee as this only gives you a quick high before you hit a slump again.
3. Healthy Snacks
Now that you work from home, you can take a trip to your fridge any time. It is risky, and if you don’t check yourself, you might need a new pair of clothes every other month.
To avert this problem, keep healthy snacks in the house and nibble on them during breaks. Healthy snacks include fruits salads, carrots and hummus, fruit and nut bars, chia seed pudding, apples and peanut butter, cheese, veggie salads among others.
It is important to avoid sugary sweets and fatty foods when working from home. The risk of addiction to such foods is high, and you might not notice it. Such foods not only affect your productivity but also affect your overall body health.
4. Hydrate
While many freelancers will swear by every cup of coffee they drink, this is an unhealthy choice. Coffee might sound like the perfect fuel for freelancers, but ultimately, it affects their health.
It is advisable to hydrate using water instead throughout the day. If the water tastes boring, you can spice it up using lemon, cucumber or mint.
Keeping your body hydrated is the foundation of good health. Keep a glass or bottle of water on your table and train yourself to take sips every other time.
5. Identify Your Hungry Times
The freelancer lifestyle impacts virtually everything in your ordinary routine. This includes your mealtimes as you will discover with time. Your working hours are irregular, and you will get hungry before or even after the usual meal times.
It is advisable to keep a note for a week and identify your hungry times. Once you have the best time, take your meals or snacks then and stick to this routine. If you try to ignore your hunger time, it becomes impossible to work, and you will find it hard to concentrate.
It is advisable to snack as opposed to taking heavy meals. Choose energy snacks as these will keep you going for a longer time. As a freelancer, you have more control over what you eat, and you can easily manage your weight over time.
Conclusion
Looking to join the freelancer ranks? Get ready for a lifestyle change by learning about healthy foods to eat. These freelance nutritional tips will boost productivity and avert lifestyle diseases.