Women should work less

By Anne Pawsey

It’s been scientifically proven that us girls shouldn’t work so hard – it’s really bad for our health. You men, however, get back in the office!

A report funded by the Economic and Social Research Council has concluded that women who work long hours are more likely to reach for chocolate and other such unhealthy food than their male colleagues. As if confirmation of social stereotypes weren’t enough women are also more likely to drink more coffee, exercise less and smoke more than men. However, there is a positive side to long hours (healthwise at least), both men and women who work long hours drink less alcohol, maybe because they can’t get to the pub before last orders.

This result is part of a larger study by psychologists at Leeds University which investigates the effects of everyday stress on eating. The researchers studied the effect of all sorts of daily hassles had on people’s eating habits. Tribulations ranging from giving a presentation or missing a deadline, to arguing with a mate or even losing you keys make you more likely to forget your good intentions and reach straight for the biscuit tin. Researcher Dr Daryl O’Connor explains; “Our study points to a clear link between stress and a tendency to eat more unhealthy snacks and consume fewer vegetables and less of a balanced main meal.”

If you want to know more about eating habits in our modern world, check out Joanna Blythman’s excellent book: Bad Food Britain.