Why Gut Health Should Be at the Core of Every Corporate Wellness Strategy
Written by Dr. Partha Nandi
Workforce employees get sick for a variety of reasons. Some are due to communicable diseases, while others might be overtired. However, gut health is often overlooked.
Yes, the digestive process can affect people. This could result in a lot of missed time and lost productivity. Here are some of the reasons that a corporate wellness speaker might give to help convince the CEO suite, the management, and the employees to focus on this area of health.
It Can Maximize Productivity
It’s hard for employees to be productive when they aren’t feeling 100%, especially when it comes to their gut. They can lose a lot of time having to shuttle back and forth to the bathroom, for one thing. It’s even worse if they have to try to hold it in since another employee might be dealing with their gut-related issues.
Sure, they might take over-the-counter medications to keep certain symptoms at bay, but that alone can wreak havoc on their overall digestive system. They might miss a day and wind up becoming constipated, for example. It’s better to find the root cause and eat foods that create a healthier gut biome.
It Can Reduce Sick Days
By the same token, people often call out of work with gut-related issues. It might be bad enough that they would rather skip the work bathroom and just use the one at home, especially if they’re afraid of making some embarrassing noises. That’s lost time, and depending on the business, a substitute or temporary worker might have to be called in to finish the job.
Also, proper eating can help people’s bodies absorb nutrients and keep them healthy. If they eat a lot of “empty calories,” then they run the risk of being susceptible to getting sick. Taking vitamin supplements can only get them so far since that can only cover so much of their daily allowance — and they might not be taking those at the optimal time, anyway. If they miss a certain window, it can be like they didn’t take them.
It Can Reduce the Cost of Dr. Visits and Medication
If someone gets sick from poor gut health, they’ll likely wind up having to go to the doctor. The doctor will likely then prescribe medication, which, depending on the person’s health insurance, could cost a lot or a little. The medication might also have some side effects that could wind up either making the person unproductive or needing to stay home to finish the regimen.
Overall, when people eat nutritious food, they feel good throughout the course of the day. They won’t feel bloated or lethargic, and their bodies will be using the nutrients they absorb to keep them motivated and focused. That will be good for business since they will be doing their best work.
Of course, diet isn’t the only way to stay healthy. People also need to get a proper amount of sleep and also fit exercise into their daily routines. All three will help them be the best employee and person they can be.
