This story is part of our monthlong Work Well initiative, which focuses on thriving in the workplace. You can find more stories from this project here .

Only one in five U.S. workers takes a lunch break , according to recent research. And when the American workweek can easily span more than 55 hours, which puts people at a higher risk of stroke and heart disease , that's a sobering thought.

As you might imagine, there are VERY good reasons to take a break at work, and your physical health is just one of them. Need convincing? Consider this:

1. It makes you more productive than staying at your desk.