When we think of work productivity, generally we are thinking of going to work and actually completing spreadsheets, talking with customers, working on new products—stuff that is pretty much work related. But one of the biggest drivers of productivity is a good diet. We don’t usually put a ton of thought into our diet and how it affects us each day when we work. But it has a dramatic effect on our energy levels, on our mood, and ultimately on how much we’re able to produce day in and day out. Nutrition is critical to your success. You don’t have to be a health nut in order to get the job done at work, but you should be mindful of avoiding some bad habits. Here are a few of the things that you’ll want to avoid if you want to be a highly productive worker:

Skipping Breakfast

It is so easy to skip breakfast, especially when you have so much to do when you get up in the morning. After the shower, finding the right clothes, and trying not to be late for work, it’s easy to miss out on the first meal of the day. But that would be a mistake. That’s because the gap between dinner time and lunch time can be over 12 hours, and you could be depriving your body of the energy it needs for over half a day’s time. Give your body the energy it needs when you wake up.

Drinking Too Much Soda

Sodas come with nearly every meal these days, and getting a soda is often easier than getting natural fruit juice or another healthy alternative. But there’s a reason you should avoid soda—the high levels of sugar can make you crash. You might get a temporary burst of energy, but it will be short, and the crash will be unpleasant and long-lasting.

Eating Too Much Fast Food

Junk food and fast food might seem like a quick fix, but it is actually hurting your body. Fast food contains high levels of sodium, which is correlated with conditions Stressed Man such as diabetes and hypertension. Fast food doesn’t contain the nutrients you need to have the energy to be productive throughout the day. The vitamins and minerals simply aren’t there. Instead of fast food, pack a sub for lunch or drink a protein smoothie.

Skipping Meals

This one is the bad habit you want to avoid the most. Skipping meals might seem inevitable when you are working hard on a project throughout the day. But trust that it is damaging your productivity. When you aren’t eating regularly, you are depriving your body of the energy that it needs to function. And if you are tired, feeling groggy, or in a bad mood, you can’t perform at a high level. Make sure that you always keep something to eat around, even a snack such as fruit or a fiber bar. Skipping meals simply puts too much strain on your body.