The exponential rise in the use of DNA testing services during the 2010s highlights that more of us are taking an active interest in our health. A global pandemic has only enforced this thinking for many; it is time to pay better attention to our overall physical and mental wellbeing.
From an employer’s perspective, reducing absenteeism in the workplace has become an increasingly important topic. With today’s fast-paced working world and the technological advances of smartphones, we are now always available to colleagues or clients at the touch of a button. Not only that, but many of us will have constant access to our emails, making it harder to mentally switch off when away from the office (even more so if ‘the office’ is currently the kitchen table). Avoiding staff burnout and enabling better health all round is now a key priority for many companies.
The cost of time off
It is estimated that a staggering 141.4 million working days were lost in the UK during 2018 because of sickness or injury. More recently, it’s been reported that days off due to mental health related illnesses cost the UK economy £14 billion in 2020. This is an increase of £1.3 billion compared to 2019.
As well as the issue of mental wellbeing, it should be noted that poor nutrition has been reported as the underlying cause of many physical health concerns, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer to name a few. With up to 65% of employees suffering from a poor diet and 30% of long-term absenteeism caused by stress, anxiety or depression, employers may want to begin taking proactive steps to encourage better physical and mental health in their people.
Digital, holistic solutions
This might feel like a huge undertaking. But one way to improve the overall wellbeing of your workforce is the offer of a DNA testing service. Muhdo is one such company that gives valuable, personalised insight into a range of factors, including type 2 diabetes risk, vitamin deficiencies, cold and flu risk, gut and heart health and much more.
The non-invasive method, which can give over 300 DNA outcomes, is completely digitised, with users receiving comprehensive reports online and tailored workout or nutrition plans in a dedicated app. Users are able to track their progress and work towards a healthier lifestyle. The service is also able to mitigate the long-term effects of poor nutrition with actionable interventions.
A welcome benefit
We all want to feel happy and healthy at work and, from a business standpoint, healthier employees may result in a reduction in sickness and a decrease in lost productivity. Prevention is better (and cheaper) than a cure, and Muhdo offers your people a way to implement sustainable, positive habits for their future physical and mental wellbeing.
Being invested in the health of your workforce is to be invested in your company, and knowing that employers are taking an active interest in this may come with further benefits such as improved staff retention and attracting talent.
