Today, many companies depend on shift workers to ensure operations run smoothly across various hours of the day. While there are clear operational advantages to having employees work in shifts, a recent study from the University of Bristol has unveiled potential health risks associated with these irregular hours – notably, a pronounced increase in appetite due to disruptions in the body’s internal rhythms.
The Science Behind the Hunger
The study found that night shifts can lead to brain changes, which in turn can increase feelings of hunger. Misalignment of the body’s internal clock, known as circadian misalignment, significantly alters the brain’s regulation of appetite-controlling hormones. Such a disruption can be likened to the effects of jet lag.
During the study, a “jet-lagged” group consumed nearly five times more food while being inactive when compared to a control group. This massive spike in food consumption when the body should typically be at rest can lead to various health complications.
Implications for Business Insurance and Employee Benefits
For business owners and HR professionals, these findings can influence several areas:
- Healthcare Costs: Increased appetite and potential weight gain in night shift workers might result in higher healthcare costs in the long run. Employees with disrupted body rhythms may be at a greater risk for obesity, diabetes, and other related conditions.
- Employee Productivity: Chronic stress and sleep disruption might not only affect appetite but also an employee’s overall well-being and productivity. Tired and hungry employees are less likely to be at their best, which could affect output and quality of work.
- Employee Benefit Programs: You might consider tailoring your employee health and wellbeing program to cater to night shift workers specifically. This could include wellness initiatives, nutritional guidance, or even access to pharmacological interventions, as the study suggested might be needed.
Taking Proactive Measures
Dr. Becky Conway-Campbell, a research fellow at Bristol Medical School, has recommended that night shift workers maintain daylight exposure, keep regular meal times, and engage in cardiovascular exercise. However, she also emphasized that overriding the brain’s increased appetite signals is challenging. Therefore, companies may need to consider more holistic strategies to support their night-shift staff, both for the benefit of the employee and the company’s bottom line.
In conclusion, while shift workers are essential for many businesses, understanding and addressing the health implications of disrupted body rhythms is crucial. Not only will it lead to healthier employees, but it can also ensure sustained productivity and potentially reduce healthcare costs in the long run.
