Eating healthy has countless benefits for both your mind and body. Although most agree that it is important to eat healthy, not everyone is able to easily do so. Packing a healthy lunch every day is not always an option for busy workers, and meal prep takes a lot of time that many of us don’t have. This creates an environment where getting a quick unhealthy meal at a fast food restaurant seems like the only choice.

At Total we pride ourselves in helping your organization present an alternate healthier option. Providing healthy options not only gives employees health benefits, but there are also tangible benefits for organizations that offer programs and support for healthier lifestyles. For example, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), businesses that promote healthy lifestyles will witness increased productivity, reduced “absenteeism” and may even experience a reduction in employee pool insurance costs and workers compensation costs. Along with the CDC, there are several other sources that agree that there are benefits for businesses who promote healthy lifestyles.

PROMOTING HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BENEFITS YOUR ORGANIZATION

One of the major benefits of promoting healthy lifestyles in your organization is increased morale. Happy employees and happy consumers are more productive and tend to exhibit greater loyalty for your organization. They also report experiencing lower stress, and as stated before, experience fewer illnesses and fewer absences.

The benefits of promoting a healthy lifestyle are not only measured by the availability of healthier options, but also by the new perception that your organization cares and invests in its people.

Overview of potential benefits of workplace health programs to employers and employees

FOR EMPLOYERS

Lower health care and disability costs
Enhanced employee productivity
Reduced employee absenteeism
Decreased rates of illness and injuries
Enhanced corporate image
Improved employee morale
Improved employee recruitment and retention
Increased organizational commitment and creation of a culture of health

FOR EMPLOYEES

Increased well-being, self-image, and self-esteem
Improved coping skills with stress or other factors affecting health
Improved health status
Lower costs for acute health issues
Lower out of pocket costs for health care services (e.g., reduced premiums; deductibles; co-payments)
Increased access to health promotion resources and social support
Improved job satisfaction
Safer and more supportive work environment