April 13th is National Make Lunch Count Day!

Are you one of the roughly one third of Americans who eats lunch at their desk every day? Many of us work long hours and feel the pressure to not take long breaks. But did you know that taking a lunch break away from your desk can actually increase your productivity?

Taking some time away from your desk to chat with coworkers over a meal can help improve your creativity and leave you feeling refreshed and more productive when your break is up. You may find that you actually end up getting more work during the day even though you’re spending less time staring at your computer.

So, on #NationalMakeLunchCount Day, we encourage you to get up from your desk and give yourself a break. If you’re nervous about being the only one not hunched over your desk all day long, recruit some coworkers to eat with you. Better yet, start a lunchtime walking group and get some light exercise in during your break.

Your lunch break should be a time to refuel and refresh your body and mind. Try some of these healthy lunch ideas for a nutritious, brain-boosting break!

Avocado Chicken Salad

Avocados have healthy omega-3 fats which help improve brain function, while chicken has the protein you need to power through the rest of your day. Try this delicious recipe in a wrap for a healthy lunch that will leave you feeling ready to tackle your afternoon.

Broccoli, Ham, and Cheese Quiche

Make this easy quiche on the weekend and divide it up into lunch-sized portions for the week. Eggs are great memory-boosting foods, so you’re sure to be on top of your game for your afternoon meeting.

Black Bean Quinoa Salad

Quinoa is a high-protein grain, and spinach has powerful brain-boosting properties. This salad will leave you full but not lethargic, so you can return to your desk refreshed and ready to go!