One of the keys to attracting and retaining top talent is a comprehensive wellness program. But is there an important health issue you may have overlooked? And what if this issue could have a significant effect on driving down medical costs, and increasing engagement at work?
Meet the microbiome — the vast colonies of microorganisms living in our gut. Scientists have found that these gut microbes do more than just help us digest food — they play a crucial role in regulating mood, helping us adapt to our environment, giving us energy and resisting disease. Ensuring your employees have a healthy gut microbiome can lead to a happier, healthier workforce with a lower incidence of both acute and chronic illnesses.
So, how can your work culture improve employee gut health?
- Educate your employees — promote the judicious use of medications like antibiotics and painkillers, which negatively affect gut bacteria.
- Educate their immune systems — encourage the use of natural cleaners and soaps at work.
- Encourage exercise and stress reduction — develop programs that incentivize employees to work out and manage their stress levels.
- Improve office air quality — the right ventilation system and high quality air filters help to improve health, comfort and the ability to work.
- Provide healthy food options — offer meals and snacks that are low in sugar and fats, but high in fiber.
Discover more about the impact of the gut microbiome on employee health and in-depth ways to help your employees manage their gut bacteria in “Gut Health: focusing on our inner economy,” a MAXIS study brought to you by MetLife, one of the cofounding members of MAXIS.