According to a recent study by Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, frequent business travel is linked with obesity and poor health. According to the study, people who travel for business for two weeks or more per month have higher rates of obesity, a higher body mass index, and poorer self-rated health than those who travel only one to six days a month.
Obviously, we’re not telling you to cancel your next business conference and reservation at your San Diego corporate housing, instead we just want to remind you of some healthy tips to keep in mind while you are traveling.
Long hours in the car and poor food choices on the road are huge contributors to the poor health of travelers. So, if you are driving long distances, try to stop every few hours for some fresh air and exercise- even just a short walk is better than nothing at all. If you are flying, it is also important to get up and walk in the aisles every few hours to avoid blood clots in your legs.
When it is possible, pack your own snacks and food rather than eating over-processed fast food. If you do have to eat in a restaurant, simply make healthier choices like fresh fruit or salads instead of french fries. And if it’s possible at your PC Housing “home away from home”, take the stairs instead of the elevator, to get your blood pumping and improve your cardiovascular health.
There is no reason you can’t take control of your health, even if you are traveling for several weeks out of the year. Just remember to get exercise, drink lots of water, and make healthy choices when you are away from the comforts of home!