A bizarre consequence of workplace stress has been seen in a 24 year old woman from China.
According to media reports, Ouyang Wenjing from China’s Guangdong province has claimed that job related stress made her gain 20 kilos in just one year.Wenjing shared her story on the social media platform Xiaohongshu. “My job became a disaster for my physical and mental health,” she revealed in an interview with news outlet Star Video.
As per reports, she is currently 80 kilos and gained weight from 60 kilos due to overwork obesity.
So, what is overwork obesity? Overwork obesity refers to weight gain and obesity that are primarily driven by excessive work-related stress and long working hours. This phenomenon is increasingly recognized in today’s fast-paced work environment, where individuals often face prolonged periods of sedentary behavior, irregular eating habits, and high-stress levels.
When people work excessively long hours, they may skip meals or rely on convenient, unhealthy food options that are high in calories and low in nutrients. Stress can also lead to emotional eating, where individuals use food as a coping mechanism. The lack of time and energy for physical activity exacerbates the problem, contributing to weight gain and an increased risk of obesity.
The mental strain from overwork can disrupt sleep patterns, further impacting metabolism and promoting weight gain. The combination of poor dietary choices, reduced physical activity, and sleep disturbances creates a cycle that is challenging to break.
Here’s how you can beat obesity due to overwork?
Since the impact of workplace stress is so heavy, you need to take measures to prevent the onset of obesity. Maintaining workplace stress generated obesity needs a holistic approach.
Focus on eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-calorie snacks should be reduced. Portion control is important too; smaller and more frequent meals control the urge to overeat. An adequate intake of foods high in fiber will help satisfy satiety and aid in digestion.
Here’s what stress does to your health
Regular physical activity helps with weight control. Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes per week through moderate-intensity aerobic activities, like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. Muscle-strengthening activities are recommended on at least two or more days during the week.
Getting enough sleep is one of the important aspects of stress management. Lack of sleep imbalances hormones, increases appetite, and results in gaining more pounds. Quality sleep for about seven to nine hours can help the body relax overnight. Keeping a sleep schedule is essential.
Practice mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or leisure activities with social contact to reduce stress. Combining alternative coping methods, such as writing in a diary or speaking with a therapist, can assist in addressing stress and binging behaviors.
Seek support with healthcare providers, like a dietitian, exercise physiologist, or therapist.
