According to a report from the Department of Health Policy at George Washington University’s School of Public Health and Health Services, the tangible annual health and work-related costs of obesity for a woman amount to $4,789 more than a woman of average weight would pay. For an obese man, those added costs are $2,646 annually.
Being obese can impact insurance rates, even more so than your age.
Prevention is key. Start making choices that will reduce obesity. Get moving and strengthening. Physical activity is one way you can invest in your long-term health. Movement is great for your mind, body and can promote weight loss.
Eat less processed foods, and eat less in general. Nourish your body with at least five servings of fruits and veggies daily. Make meal choices to include lean proteins and healthy fats.
Enjoy a good night’s sleep, and manage your stress. Lack of sleep and excess stress can sabotage weight loss efforts.
Participate in your company’s wellness program. Taking advantage of company wellness perks is a way to be proactive about investing your wellbeing.
Seek professional support. If you are not having success with your weight loss efforts, look to a professional for guidance. It does not matter if you have been overweight your entire life, there are changes you can start to make at any age to improve your health.
Author: Heather Klaus, Medcor, Wellness Program Manager. Heather oversees Medcor’s internal wellness program for nearly 900 associates nationwide. She also develops and supports wellness programs for Medcor clients. Heather is a regular author and contributor to health and wellness blogs, videos and newsletters. Heather holds a Bachelor’s in Science from Northern Illinois University in Nutrition and Dietetics. She is a certified trainer, fitness instructor and Lifestyle and Weight Management Consultant. http://www.medcor.com. Contact: heather.klaus@medcor.com
