Some days you are just so swamped that the idea of leaving your desk even for a minute can seem like a huge challenge. So what do you do? You work through lunch, chomping on your food quickly while your eyes are glued to the screen as you continue to work on the task at hand. Over the past few years, eating lunch at the desk has become very common and a trend that isn't really beneficial to anyone. According to a 2012 poll by Right Management, only 20 per cent of workers actually leaves their desk to have a lunch break. If you are one of those people that sit at their desk all day, it's time to stop. If you need a reason, we've got a few that are sure to motivate you to take a break and enjoy your lunch away from your desk.

Whether you are at home or at work, your body needs to move at regular intervals. Sitting for too long in one place has been found to have a tremendous impact on our health. Experts say it can increase the risk of diabetes, obesity, anxiety and even premature death. It can even cause back and shoulder issues. That is why lunchtime is the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. This simple habit in the day will do your health a world of good.

The practice of mindful eating goes out the window if you're eating at your desk. You are not aware of the act of eating. You staying glued to the screen while you eat at work is like eating food when you are watching TV. Being distracted in this way causes you to lose track of what you are eating and how much of it. Maybe you have a big bag of chips in the drawer you take out when you need to munch on something. But do you know when you have had a few too many? Eating like this will cause you to gain weight and make unhealthy food choices.

As neat as you may be, eating at your desk may not be pretty. Think of the crumbs, peanut better droppings or pieces from your salad all over your keyboard. Remember, your working while your eating. So that means you've got your hand everywhere, from your food to your laptop. Not only is that a horrifying sight, but it's not clean. According to a 2012 report by Tork, your desk contains way more bacteria than your toilet. Think of that for a minute. Hygiene alone should be a good enough reason to stop eating at your desk.

Experts say your brain needs to have a break in order to stay focused. That is why sitting at your desk all day and trying to get everything done won't make you very productive. Even a really short break can help improve brain function in order to help you perform better. So if you are feeling guilty about even taking a lunch break, don't because your brain needs it.