Business Q&A: Incentives, healthy meal options help promote workplace wellness

Q&A with Michael O’Rourke

Incentives, food options help promote workplace wellness

Q: What are some simple ways companies can incorporate good nutrition into the workplace?

A: The best thing a company can do is to provide opportunities for their employees to learn the fundamentals of good nutrition. Eating regular, well-balanced meals keeps your body properly fueled and ready for work. another big issue in the workplace is consuming too many liquid calories. the average person drinks two soft drinks a day, which is the equivalent to eating about three to four sticks of cotton candy a day. Companies can provide healthy options for all meals in their cafeterias and encourage employees to drink water instead of soda.

Q: What are the best ways to weave in incentives for employees?

A: Most people want to be healthy, energetic and fit, but they don’t have time or they have lost their motivation. Offering incentives for a healthy lifestyle can help push them to give it another try. At Kimray, we offer our employees up to $1,500 per year for healthy behavior. Many times this encourages the employee to begin a wellness program, and the cash reward quickly takes a back seat as they begin to experience the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What kinds of programs have the best results?

A: There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution to wellness programs, but there are two elements that need to be included in any program for it to be successful. First, you need to track results throughout the duration of the program, whether it’s miles walked, pounds lost or percentage body fat reduced. the second element is that it needs to be a team effort. you can create teams within the company or set a goal for the group. It’s important for you to be able to participate with your co-workers, as it makes it more fun for everyone.

PAULA BURKES, Business Writer