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Healthy Lifestyles

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Obesity and the health conditions associated with it; such as, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, stroke, coronary heart disease, and certain types of cancer are responsible for much of the increase in health care spending by employers. Obese people spend 77% more money for necessary medications than non-obese people.

Obesity affects more than health care costs; it also has a significant effect on productivity in the workplace, because the more chronic medical conditions an employee has, the higher the probability of absenteeism or presenteeism. (Presenteeism: The employee is present at work but not being fully productive).

A worksite wellness program can feature information and activities that promote healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight loss among employees. Empowering them to prevent or delay and manage diabetes.

Learn more at Diabetes Better Health Sense, and the National Physical Activity Plan, Steps to Wellness: A Guide to Implementing the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for American in the Workplace.

Aids & Tools

Know More

  1. Learn more about healthy lifestyles from the National Diabetes Education Program’s Health Sense web site.
  2. Check out the Obesity Prevention resources available from the CDC here.

Ask More

  1. How can we introduce healthy snacks for parties and holidays?
    Answer:
    Consider introducing a healthy food policy at your workplace. Resources are available at Workplace Health Promotion.

  2. How can we go about getting more exercise in our community and workplace?
    Answer:
    Start with a workplace committee or group of individuals interested in helping to promote physical activity. Go4Life includes tools and strategies to promote physical activity. The CDC's Healthier Worksite Initiative includes many resources to make your workplace a more active environment.

  3. How do we start a weight loss program at work that people feel comfortable with?
    Answer:
    Check out the Obesity Prevention resources available from the CDC here.

Do More

  1. During National Nutrition Month in March, feature food labels in your cafeteria and sponsor healthy lunches or cooking demos. National Diabetes Month resources can be found at

  2. Offer the Healthy Eating lesson plan in your workplace:

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