Some Occupations More Likely to Affect Weight

A new survey from CareerBuilder finds that two-in-five workers (44%) have gained weight at their current job, on par with previous studies. Twenty-six percent of workers gained over 10 pounds, and 13% gained over 20 pounds. Sixteen percent said they had lost weight. The survey included responses from over 5,700 workers across industries.

Certain occupations had a higher incidence of workers reporting weight gain, often tied to sedentary or high-stress positions. Among those most likely to report gaining weight: travel agent; attorney/judge; social worker; teacher; artist/designer/architect; administrative assistant; physician; protective services; marketing/public relations professional; information technology professional.

More than half the surveyed workers (54%) attribute their weight gain to sitting at their desk most of the day, and roughly the same number (56%) state that they eat their lunch there as well. Other culprits causing extra inches:

• Eating because of stres: 37%
• Eating out regularly23%
• Having to skip meals because of time constraint: 19%
• Workplace celebrations (potlucks, birthdays)18%
• The office candy jar temptation – 16%
• Pressure to eat food coworkers bring in10%

When asked how often they eat out at work for lunch instead of bringing their meal from home, 53% of workers said they do so at least once a week, 23% at least three times a week, and 11% at least five times a week.

Ten percent of workers indicated they eat lunch out of the vending machine at least once a week, and 71% said they snack during the workday.

When it comes to exercise routines, 59% of workers said they exercise regularly, while 10% said they don’t exercise at all.

Work-related tips from CareerBuilder for staying fit