A new study suggests that individuals who work longer hours are more likely to be obese. Researchers point to work-related stress and a lack of time for exercise as potential reasons why those who stay late at the office may gain weight.
Campaigners Call for Four-Day Week
Campaigners have seized on the findings, presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, to urge ministers to introduce a four-day working week. However, critics describe the claim that such a policy would make Britons slimmer as 'dubious' and warn that many cannot afford a reduction in income.
Study Details
The international study, led by Dr. Pradeepa Korale-Gedara from the University of Queensland, Australia, found that countries with longer working hours typically have higher obesity rates. She explained that workplace stress increases cortisol levels, causing fat storage, while modern jobs often lack physical activity.
'When people have a more balanced life, they have a better life,' Dr. Korale-Gedara said. 'They have less stress, they can focus on more nutritious food and engage in more physical activities.'
Three in ten Britons are obese, and the findings suggest that a four-day week could reduce that number by around half a million. The study analysed data from 33 OECD countries between 1990 and 2022, finding that a 1% reduction in annual working hours was associated with a 0.16% decrease in obesity rates.
Counterarguments
Dr. Christopher Snowdon, head of lifestyle economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs, noted that the UK already has some of the lowest working hours among the countries studied but still has high obesity rates. 'The idea that a four-day week would make Brits slimmer seems dubious,' he said. 'For most people, a four-day week would mean a lower income, and we know that people on low incomes are more likely to be obese.'
James Reeves, campaign manager of the 4 Day Week Foundation, argued that a four-day week could 'slash Britain's obesity levels by giving millions the time they need to ditch bad habits and make healthier choices.' He added that time for 'life admin' during the week frees up weekends for healthy activities.
Political Context
The concept of a four-day week faced opposition from the previous Conservative government, but former Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner has expressed some support. A government spokesperson stated, 'This government will not mandate a four-day work week for five days' pay. But through the Employment Rights Act, we're making it easier for flexible working requests to be accepted.'
The study does not prove causation, and researchers acknowledge that income levels across countries may also be a key factor. The four-day week movement draws parallels to the historic shift from a six-day to a five-day work week a century ago.
