How Can Extra Virgin Olive Oil And The Mediterranean Diet Boost Wellbeing In The Workplace?

How Mediterranean Lifestyle Choices Can Benefit Your Working Life.

^{Updated June 26th 2024}

Transform Your Workday with the Power of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and the Mediterranean Diet

The modern workplace is constantly evolving, with more companies emphasizing health and wellness. Amidst this shift, the Mediterranean diet and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) are gaining traction for their potential to boost wellbeing at work. This blog dives into how these dietary choices can transform your workday, enhancing your overall health and productivity

The popular Mediterranean Diet is a great way to improve your workplace wellness. The diet is based on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and the best extra virgin olive oil, with moderate amounts of fish and poultry. It’s been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions like cancer. Plus, it’s easy to follow, doesn’t require any special ingredients or equipment and it can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

If your employer offers a wellness program, you may want to try to incorporate the Mediterranean diet into your wellness plan. Here are some tips for getting started on the Mediterranean diet at work.

Wellness At Work: Why It Matters And How Can The Mediterranean Diet Help?

We spend a significant portion of our day at work, making it crucial to maintain good health habits in the office. A healthy diet is a key component of workplace wellness. It can boost your energy, enhance your mood, and improve your focus. But not all diets are created equal.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like Extra Virgin Olive Oil, stands out. It’s more than just a diet; it’s a lifestyle that promotes long-term health benefits.

According to fullymediterranean.com, 

• Employers save on average $5.82 in lower absenteeism costs for every dollar spent on employee wellness programs.
• 61% of employees agree that they have made healthier lifestyle choices because of their company’s wellness program.
• 89% of workers at companies that support well-being initiatives are more likely to recommend their company as a good place to work.

These are compelling statistics and worth thinking about when making your lifestyle and dietary choices at work.  Whether you are office based, work from home or adopt a mix of both, there are very simple changes you can make that can benefit your long term wellness.

Four Easy Ways To Incorporate Mediterranean Wellness Into Your Workday:

1. Plan Your Meals

Whether it’s for a Mediterranean meal plan or not, writing your shopping list around a well thought out meal plan will ultimately save you time, money, and wastage.  Why not take some time out on a Sunday to plan some fun work lunches or batch cook then pull something out of the fridge/freezer as you head out of the door each morning?

2. Take Your Schedule into Consideration

If you known you have a busy day ahead, opt for quick and easy dishes and leave the extra walking time for days when you have a bit more flexibility in your schedule.

3. Make It A Social Event

Involve your colleagues in some Mediterranean themed cooking.  If you all bring in a dish, you could sit down to a Mezze platter at lunchtime.

4. Remember It’s About Movement Too

Wellness is not just about your nutritional choices; it’s about keeping your body physically active too.  Why not try taking a walk during your lunch hour or getting off the bus a few stops early if you have the time.  Alternatively, is it worth exploring the option of a standing desk at work or even just taking the stairs instead of the lift?

Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil For Wellness

It has been known for centuries that high quality extra virgin olive oil is good for your health and wellbeing. It has also been lauded across many cultures.

In ancient Rome, olive oil was used for nearly everything in relation to their health. Roman medicine takes heavily from Greek doctors, who influenced European medicine for centuries.

The difference now is – following extensive scientific research we now know exactly what is in high quality olive oils that is so good for you – its antioxidant polyphenols.

Echoing the ambition of The Global Wellness Institute and its Ambassadors across the globe, Morocco Gold is on a mission to:

1. Re-establish extra virgin olive oil as a healthy diet / wellness lifestyle choice
2. Show wellness conscious people on how this incredibly simple diet / lifestyle choice – inclusion of a high-quality extra virgin olive oil – can have a profound impact on their health and wellbeing
3. Show how extra virgin olive fits into a wider wellness lifestyle.

So,  why not join us in our mission to boost wellness in the workplace as well as at home with a little bit of inspiration from The Mediterranean!

The Science Behind Healthy Fats Like Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a staple in the Mediterranean diet and for good reason. It’s packed with monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that contribute to numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that EVOO can reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and even protect against certain cancers.

These properties make EVOO an excellent choice for workplace wellness. Including it in your diet can help you stay healthier, more focused, and more productive.

How Extra Virgin Olive Oil Boosts Workplace Wellbeing

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Extra Virgin Olive Oil is rich in antioxidants, which protect your body from oxidative stress. This is particularly beneficial in a work environment where you might be exposed to various stressors. Antioxidants help reduce cell damage, keeping you healthy and energized.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation is linked to numerous health issues, including fatigue and poor concentration. The anti-inflammatory properties of EVOO can help mitigate these effects, improving your overall wellbeing and performance at work.

Satiety and Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and productivity. EVOO helps you feel full longer, reducing the temptation to snack on unhealthy foods. Its healthy fats support metabolism and contribute to weight management, keeping you at your best.

Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet at Work

Improved Heart Health

Heart disease is a leading cause of illness worldwide, but the Mediterranean diet can significantly reduce your risk. The diet’s emphasis on healthy fats, such as those found in EVOO, helps lower bad cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterol levels. This balance supports cardiovascular health, ensuring you stay fit and energetic at work.

Enhanced Cognitive Function

A healthy brain is essential for productivity. The Mediterranean diet is rich in nutrients that support cognitive function, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. These nutrients help improve memory, focus, and mental clarity, allowing you to perform your best at work.

Better Mood and Reduced Stress

Work can be stressful, but a nutritious diet can help manage stress levels. The Mediterranean diet is associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety. Foods like EVOO, nuts, and leafy greens are rich in nutrients that promote mental wellbeing, helping you stay calm and positive throughout the workday.