5 Ways Workaholics Can And Should Safeguard Their Health

5 Ways Workaholics Can And Should Safeguard Their Health. It seems as though we’re working harder than ever. As the cost of living continues to rise yet our wages (frustratingly) remain the same, we seem locked in a constant struggle to keep our heads above water financially. We can find ourselves putting in more hours, working through our lunch breaks, and inevitably working at the expense of our health.

This leaves many of today’s workers locked in a seemingly inescapable conundrum. They can’t afford to put in fewer hours or take more days off. In an era of corporate wage repression, such an act could potentially decimate their finances. What they can do, however, is implement safeguards to protect their health.

Here are some ways in which even the most ardent workaholic can safeguard their health as well as their mental and emotional well-being… 

Something doesn’t feel, right. Contact your primary healthcare provider

Many diligent workers feel the need to soldier on through feelings of sickness, pain, or discomfort. This can do far more harm than good and if you think your employer is going to thank you for your efforts, think again. If you wind up having something communicable they probably won’t be too happy with your decision to roll up to work rather than take a sick day.

Make sure you know your primary care location. The moment something doesn’t feel right, make an appointment with your doctor. 

Get up once every half an hour

As you’ve more than likely heard lately, sitting is the new smoking. The inevitability of our 21st-century lifestyle means that we spend most of our waking hours on our butts. Whether we’re sitting at our desks, sitting in the car, or lounging on the sofa, we spend a lot of time seated at work and playing. 

This puts a lot of pressure on our vital organs (so-called because they keep us alive). This in turn can result in bad posture, digestive problems, and even an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and some forms of cancer. 

Taking a short walk every half an hour can help to mitigate this risk.

Ask your boss for a standing desk

Don’t have a few minutes every half hour to spare? Ask your boss to put a standing desk in your office. It can help you to avert the health risks caused by too much sitting without endangering your productivity.

Keep that water coming

Dehydration can damage your health and your productivity. It can make you cranky and unable to concentrate as well as potentially place undue stress on your kidneys. Make sure that you’re drinking at least 2 liters of water every day. Not coffee. Not tea. Water. Sure, you may need to get up to pee more but hey, at least that’s an excuse to get you off your seat.

Snack healthy

Finally, don’t take unnecessary risks with your blood sugar by waiting until your lunch break to give your body the quality nutrition it needs. Skipping meals or going too long without eating can lead to energy crashes, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. This can make your day more stressful and less productive. Instead of waiting until you’re overly hungry, consider the benefits of snacking throughout the day to maintain consistent energy levels.

However, it’s crucial to snack wisely. Eating unhealthy snacks loaded with sugar, unhealthy fats, or empty calories can do more harm than good. Instead, opt for nutrient-dense options that provide your body with the fuel it needs to thrive. Snacking on a mix of seeds, nuts, and berries is an excellent choice. Seeds and nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals such as magnesium, zinc, and selenium, all of which support brain function, heart health, and overall vitality. Berries, on the other hand, are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a delicious way to protect your cells from damage and promote good digestion.

By keeping healthy snacks within easy reach at your desk, you can maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the day. This not only helps you avoid energy slumps but also supports better focus and mood. Taking small steps like this can make a significant difference in how you feel and perform, ensuring that your body gets the nourishment it deserves, even on the busiest days.

Originally posted 2019-07-22 11:59:59.