We have heard it all before. Conventional wisdom says we are likely to gain anywhere from 5 to 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
This sounds logical, since during the holiday season we face:
- More parties, snack foods and big celebratory meals;
- Stress and holiday commitments, plus increased levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), which promotes weight gain;
- Broken routines. More travel leads to more sitting, exercise routine disruption, less control over your food planning;
- Emotional associations; and
- Social pressure/subtle psychological cues that it is okay to overeat at this time of year.
Conventional wisdom has also told us:
- Don’t go to a party hungry;
- Be aware of your snacking;
- If you indulge, do so in moderation; and
- Alcohol has calories.
Now that the holiday season is over, and we are dealing with the aftermath, what’s next?
Make a New Year’s resolution to cut out bad foods and start an exercise program? What is the average life expectancy of those resolutions as they are broken and head to the scrap pile?
Research shows that a better, more long-lasting solution is to look at basic changes in your habits. Many employers offer wellness benefits of some sort, designed to help develop a healthier, more engaged workforce. This can be a great avenue to kick-off a better 2016.
EI works with clients to help provide on-site biometric screenings including height, weight, blood pressure and body mass index. We also conduct point-of-care lipid and glucose screenings; comprehensive or specific lab draws; health risk appraisals; health coaching; benefit plan design consultation as well as comprehensive audiometric and respiratory programs. These can be and often are tailored to the needs of the company and its employees. The information gathered at worksite screening events can help validate good, healthy habits or help detect issues which need to be managed. This data should be taken to each individual’s Primary Care Provider (PCP). In any event, always consult with your PCP for advice on starting a diet or exercise program.
So, we may need to turn over a new leaf. Or, maybe we just need to fine-tune a few habits for the New Year. Let The EI Group help with your workplace occupational health needs, simple or complex, large company or small.