You’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And while a healthy meal is undoubtedly a great way to get your day off to a good start, there’s also an argument to be made that lunch is just as important. That doesn’t mean inhaling a sandwich at midday while you answer emails, though. Taking a real break and enjoying a filling, nutritious meal can be beneficial to your health, productivity, and your mental well-being. Below, learn about the benefits of a lunch break. 

Why You Need Your Lunch Break 

1. Become More Productive 

When you’re engaged in work, it’s easy for time to slip away. However, the longer you work without taking a break, the more your productivity, and the quality of your work, suffers. Studies reveal taking multiple breaks can improve everything from your ability to make decisions and solve problems to avoid mistakes and improve your memory. Ideally, you should take a short break every 90 minutes, and an extended break for lunch can also help you stay on track for the rest of the day. Leave your desk and your work, and enjoy a change of scenery for a bit so you can relax and really clear your mind before you tackle your afternoon tasks. 

2. Improve Your Physical Health

Skipping meals, or mindlessly snacking throughout the day rather than stopping for an actual meal, can be detrimental to your overall health and well-being. Irregular eating patterns can affect your metabolism and your blood sugar levels, which not only influence your weight and risk for health issues like diabetes, but also affect your productivity. The all-too-common “3 P.M. slump,” for example, typically starts when you skip lunch or choose foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar. Not to mention, eating at your desk, and not taking an actual break, keeps you from eating mindfully, which often results in eating more. Take a real break, and choose a filling, nutrient-rich meal that includes a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats to help you feel full and alert all afternoon.

3. Improve Your Mental Health

Taking a lunch break gives you a chance to connect with your colleagues and have some social interaction, which is vital to mental well-being. Getting away from your desk for a bit can also help you de-stress and relax, allowing you to be more focused when you get back to work. Taking a short walk and getting some fresh air, for example, can improve your mood and provide some perspective, improving your mood and emotional regulation. 

A great break starts with a great lunch. Take your bagged lunch to the next level with specialty meats and cheeses from JJ International Delicatessen in Port Jervis, NY. They offer a full menu of sandwiches as well as dozens of European-style meats and cheeses that take your homemade lunches from boring to spectacular. To learn more about this delicatessen and grocer, visit them online or call (845) 858-1142.