Job stress can certainly take a toll on employees — from burnout to health concerns — but could it contribute to weight gain in the workplace?

Job stress can certainly take a toll on employees — from burnout to health concerns — but could it contribute to weight gain in the workplace?

Nearly 6 in 10 U.S. workers (57 percent) feel they're overweight, up from the 55 percent who reported feeling overweight last year, according to a new CareerBuilder survey. And job-related stress may have a strong correlation to weight gain.

The research shows that workers who experience high levels of stress are 49 percent more likely to rate themselves as overweight when compared with workers with low stress.

Leading culprits of workplace weight gain

We asked employees what they think contributed to their weight gain at their current job. As you might have guessed, sedentary behavior topped the list. Here's what they said:

• Sitting at the desk most of the day (56 percent)
• Too tired from work to exercise (43 percent)
• Eating because of stress (37 percent)
• Wellness and overall health ought to be a priority not just to workers, but also to employers.

"The health of a company's workforce is a paramount issue for many employers, as neglecting it can significantly dampen workplace morale and productivity," said Rosemary Haefner, chief human resources officer at CareerBuilder. "There's a clear incentive to make wellness and work-life balance a focus of organizational culture, and we're encouraged to see many companies making them a priority year after year."

Tips to lose weight on the job

There's no need to go all J-Lo to lose a few pounds at work — just try some of these simple steps to encourage and maintain healthier habits.

• Snack and eat out less
• Exercise more
• Take advantage of your employer's wellness benefits
• Leave your desk for lunch

(Picture Source: Internet)

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