-By Stacy Straczynski

Keeping waistlines trim has always proved to be a difficult task for many, but it’s even more challenging for those in the workplace.

Sixty-three percent of American employees reported to Skokie, Ill.-based Internet grocer Peapod that they struggle to maintain a healthy diet at work. Almost half of respondents (47 percent) attributed the dieting challenge to the abundance of less-than-wholesome snack options available at the office. The findings are from a recent Peapod Biz Bites Survey, which was sponsored by Peapod Business Delivery.

“One of the best ways to support healthy lifestyles in the workplace is also one of the easiest,” said Cathy Leman, a Chicago-area registered dietitian and certified personal trainer. “When you control the environment that you spend eight plus hours per day in, you automatically set yourself up for success. That means stocking the break room with healthy, accessible snack foods. Offer a variety of choices like fresh and dried fruit, yogurt, whole grain crackers, nuts, raw veggies with low-fat dip, hummus and baked pita chips, and oatmeal raisin cookies.”

Only 36 percent of respondents said their companies offer produce, though the staffers rated this as their top snack choice. Candy ranked as the least favorite. Less than a third (28 percent) of employees claimed satisfaction with their current workplace snack options.