How to Improve Your Health in the Workplace by Amy Winter on Creators.com

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How to Improve Your Health in the Workplace

How would you describe your daily food choices at work? Do you tend to reach for a candy bar instead of an apple? It is easy to snack all day when sitting and staring at the computer screen. Sweets and fatty foods may feel comforting when dealing with a stressful office environment, but you don't want to develop unhealthy eating habits. And sitting in a chair all day isn't helping that expanding waistline.

When it comes to the results from a CareerBuilder survey, it appears that more workers are looking for methods to lose weight. According to the survey that questioned at least 5,600 workers, 18 percent of respondents say they have lost weight in their current positions, compared to 16 percent in last year's survey.

Stress is one culprit that helps workers put on the pounds — 24 percent of employees cite stress as the reason for their weight gain. Other factors that lead to unhealthy eating choices include: sitting at a desk for most of the day, eating out on a regular basis, skipping meals due to busy work schedules and participating in office celebrations like potlucks or birthday parties.

"While many employees still struggle to lose weight, it's encouraging to see that more workers are embracing healthier habits at the office," says Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources at CareerBuilder. "Most organizations are mindful of the higher costs, both to their bottom line and to their workers' overall quality of life, that are associated with unhealthy behaviors.

"As a result, many workplaces are taking a more proactive role in their staff's well-being by implementing programs and benefits that promote wellness."

Twenty-eight percent of companies want to guide their employees toward a healthier lifestyle by giving gym passes, providing a workout facility or having wellness benefits.

Taking a workout break can also give you more energy and a better outlook on your daily schedule.

When it comes to eating at work, employees should consider packing their own lunch. This way, they can control portion sizes and receive a healthy balance of fruit, vegetables, grains, lean proteins, etc. Snacking can be dangerous to those trying to lose weight — 65 percent admit to snacking once a day, while 25 percent reach for a snack twice a day. If you want a snack, grab a piece of fruit instead of a bag of chips or a cookie.

Haefner provides tips to maintain a healthy diet and decrease weight gain:

— Go on a walk. Take a break and go for a quick outdoor walk. You will benefit by burning some calories and taking a mental break from your workload.

— Prepare your meals ahead of time. Each week, decide what meals you will bring to the office. You want to cut down on unwanted calories.

— Keep water nearby. It is important to stay hydrated throughout the workday.

— Find a healthy work partner. This person can help you stay on track. You can go to the gym together or help each other resist the donuts or cake sitting in the break room.

As summer approaches, try to improve your lifestyle when at the office. Exercising regularly, eating more healthy and staying hydrated will increase your energy, focus and attitude. And a positive outlook will create a better working environment.

For more information, visit www.careerbuilder.com.

To find out more about Amy Winter and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.