Weight Loss Challenges have No Business in the Workplace

Weight Loss Challenges have No Business in the Workplace

Many companies offer wellness programs to their employees.  Often times as part of the program, companies hold weight loss challenges trying to promote wellness.  These weight loss challenges can have many negative implications.

Weight loss challenges in the workplace can be very triggering for employees with a history of dieting or disordered eating and for those who thrive on competition.  They can lead to restrictive eating, excessive exercise, and other extreme dieting measures.  Ultimately, these weight loss challenges do not accomplish the initial goal that employees had in mind: improving the wellness of their employees.

The National Wellness Institute defines wellness as "an active process through which people become aware and make choices toward a more successful existence.”  Wellness is an “active process” meaning that one "actively" engages in activities that can promote health such as walking 30 minutes daily or eating consistently on a regular meal schedule.  Weight loss can be the result of these lifestyle changes, but it is not the goal because we cannot control how much weight we lose, but we can manage the behaviors we do.

Best workplace wellness programs tend to offer opportunities for collaboration, socialization, and team building.  Healthy behaviors show to have a greater impact on health and wellness.  Here are some behaviors companies may focus on to promote health and wellness in their employees:

1.  Encourage a regular break schedule to relieve stress.  For example, schedule daily stretch breaks and or weekly group walks.

2.  Promote adequate hydration by giving Employees Company branded, refillable water bottles to keep at their desks.  Offer fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks.

3.  Promote that all foods fit in and encourage adding nutrient dense foods in rather than taking foods away.  Plan for quarterly potlucks where employees are encouraged to bring in their favorite cultural foods.  This can build camaraderie among employees and focus more on the social part of eating, variety, and enjoyment rather than the guilt and shame that comes with weight loss focused competitions.

Workplace wellness challenges can be a positive thing by promoting well-balanced meals, variety, foods from all food groups and cultures, eating on a regular meal schedule, and encouraging regular physical activity.