6 Ways Your Desk Job Is Making You Overweight

Compared to other countries, the obesity rate in the Philippines is low. But still, we haven't shown progress toward achieving the target rate for obesity. As of the latest data, 8.8% of adult women (18 and above) and 6.4% of adult men in the Philippines live with obesity. The number of overweight people is another story.

​One of the most concerning news is that nearly 50% of Filipino police officers are overweight and obese. Considering the demands of their job, excess weight can indeed put them at a disadvantage. As such, consequences have been set to compel the police force to get back in shape.

But if police officers, who underwent rigorous training, can be prone to obesity, how much more prone are those with a desk job? Working eight hours a day without leaving your seat can cause detriments to your body. Just because you don't move doesn't mean you can't get burnt out. And if you're often burnt out, your risks for obesity can increase.

​Ways Your Desk Job Makes You Gain Weight

Heavy Workload Can Cause Emotional Eating
In a study conducted at the University of Georgia, it was found that employees with heavier workloads are more likely to engage in emotional eating or binge eating. They also tend to choose food with more fat.
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This happens because overworking causes chronic stress. Work-related chronic stress manifests itself in negative health behaviors and habits, like overeating. Stressed employees are usually aware that they need to eat healthier. But they think they don't have time and energy for it. Hence, they just resort to unhealthy food that gives them comfort.

Your Wellness Isn't Your Company's Priority
Unfortunately, not all employers offer wellness benefits. This further discourages employees from being more active. But if companies offer reimbursements for gym memberships or regular health appointments, more employees will be in shape.

You Lack Physical Activity
Not going to the gym isn't the only way to lose physical activity. Sitting at a desk for eight hours contributes to it, too. If you also don't work out at home before or after office hours, your lifestyle becomes even more sedentary. Sadly, many employees are prone to such a lifestyle. The stress from working all day depletes energy and affects mood. Many employees often lack sleep, too, making them unwilling to exercise early in the morning.

You Don't Get Enough Sunlight
Natural light doesn't only enhance the office environment but boosts your health, too. Employees with windows near their seats get 173% more white light exposure than those far away from the window. White light exposure can aid your sleep, allowing you to get up to 46 extra minutes of slumber per night. And with enough sleep, your metabolism would improve, preventing insulin resistance.

You Order Instead of Making Your Own Meals
It's easier to order takeout than make your own meals, of course. But most takeout meals are loaded with calories and fat. They're less cost-effective than making your meals.

You Regularly Engage in Happy Hour
If you drink with your co-workers every weekend, don't be surprised by the number on the scale. Alcohol is high in calories and messes up your metabolism. Some researchers claim that booze can slow down your body's fat-burning process by 73%. It may be tempting to blow off steam by drinking, but if your weight is your concern, you better find healthier weekend routines.

​Hacks to Losing Weight With a Desk Job

You're not doomed to become obese and unhealthy just because of your job. You can adopt an active and healthy lifestyle without changing your profession. But you must be willing to invest some time, energy, and money.

Stop Ordering Takeout
The cheapest and quickest way to lose extra pounds is by skipping the takeout. Make time for preparing meals at home to bring to work. If you can't sacrifice your sleep, order pre-cooked meals instead. Store a week's worth of packed lunch in the freezer. Your new meals can rev up your sluggish metabolism in no time.

Increase Your Daily Steps
Instead of using the elevator or escalator, use the stairs. When you commute, change your drop-off point to a farther location so that you can walk a longer distance to your office. It's an easy way to get exercise daily.

Small steps will help you create small changes that after some time will be habitual. It does take time, but having that discipline will be good for your health, including you mind. We have heard about easier ways to lose weight, so we feel it should be mentioned, but do remember that with exercise and more greens and veggies along with minor changes it's possible and effective. 

Invest in a Quick Weight Loss Procedure
If it's something you're into, can, and want to, you can find a reputable weight loss clinic and learn about their non-invasive slimming procedures. Non-invasive procedures are more economical than liposuction. 

A desk job can affect your health if a healthy lifestyle is not attached. However, that goes for all jobs. But since a desk job does not involve so much physical movement and exercise, it's important to incorporate it yourself. Stay focused on your well-being. Take any opportunity to be active and healthy. Only you can motivate yourself best.

Don't forget to love yourself, be kind to you, and take care of all of you - mind, body, and spirit. ​

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