In the fast-paced world of business, productivity is a key driver of success. As we embark on a new year, it’s essential to explore all aspects that may impact our efficiency and well-being. One surprising factor that often goes overlooked is our sugar intake.

Recent studies have shed light on the significant effects of sugar on productivity in the workplace. Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to increased fatigue, decreased alertness, impaired cognitive function, and, most importantly, wide-spread inflammation that can exacerbate health conditions. The rollercoaster of energy spikes and crashes associated with sugar can lead to a lack of focus and concentration, ultimately affecting the quality of work.

How Sugar Hides

When the three o’clock slump hits, many people purposely choose snacks and drinks that are high in sugar to create an instant source of energy, followed by a crash. And, sometimes, even though we choose snacks we believe are actually healthier, they still contain high amounts of sugar, hiding in different forms. When choosing “healthier for you” prepackaged snacks, read your labels and be sugar-conscious. Look for words in the ingredient lists like: 

• Agave
• Barley malt
• Brown sugar
• Cane juice/evaporated cane juice
• Cane sugar
• Cane syrup
• Corn sweetener
• Corn syrup
• Glucose
• Fructose
• Other words ending in “ose”
• Molasses
• Honey
• Malt 

All of these ingredients eventually break down into their base component of glucose. One way to prevent blood sugar spikes is by choosing packaged food that also contains fibre, which helps slow the processing of sugar in your body, releasing it more slowly into the bloodstream, thereby helping to control the spikes and dips in energy. Making your own snacks is, of course, the best way to know what is in your food! 

Understanding the impact of sugar on productivity is the first step towards creating a healthier and more focused workplace. As we strive for success in the new year, let’s consider adopting strategies to reduce sugar intake, such as promoting healthier snack options and encouraging mindful eating habits.