Living Healthy on 3rd Shift

Question by genus (Brownsville, TN)
Posted on May 02, 2008

I work 3rd shift and it's very difficult to eat and exercise like I should. Any suggestions?

Amy's Answer

Amy Bragagnini, MS, RD, is a registered dietitian and consultant…Read Full Bio

Working third shift may make eating healthfully somewhat difficult. Business cafeterias are generally closed during third shift hours and employees are forced to select food from a vending machine. Many vending machines have foods that are processed and high in fat, sugar, and empty calories. Pre-planning is essential to helping you eat better at work. Pack your meals ahead of time so you can be prepared. I would suggest packing a variety of healthy foods. For example, fresh and dried fruit make a terrific high fiber snack. Individual packets of oatmeal, hard-boiled eggs, pre-cut veggies, almonds and fiber bars are also good choices. Also make sure you are packing water or low sugar juice so you won’t be forced to select a vending machine “regular” soda. If you forget to pack foods ahead of time (and a vending machine is your only choice), baked chips, dried fruit, pretzels, protein bars or nuts may be healthier choices than cupcakes, candy bars, cookies, or doughnuts.