It seems these days that the topic of health care reform is taking center stage. No matter which side of the debate you stand on, we can all agree that making people healthier will ultimately prevent long term chronic disease risk and reduce health care costs. Corporations are starting to catch on to this “prevention” concept as a way to reduce costs associated with employee health issues, such as rising insurance premiums and absenteeism. Obesity costs U.S. companies more than $13 billion annually in medical fees and lost productivity. Workplace wellness programs are increasing in popularity as many employers realize that employees who have a healthy lifestyle are less likely to miss work, tend to feel better and have more energy, and ultimately are more productive workers. Workplace wellness programs have a positive impact on both the employees and the bottom line- it’s a win-win! 

Since April is National Workplace Wellness Month, now is the perfect time to take steps toward developing a wellness program in your place of business. Dairy Council of California is here to help your organization create a healthier workplace by offering tools and resources that enable adults to achieve optimal health through balanced food choices and physical activity. If you are interested in learning more about how we can enhance your wellness program, please contact me at arosales@dairycouncilofca.org. If you have used any of our resources in a creative way within your workplace or you have ideas of how we can meet your wellness needs, I would love to hear from you as well. Let’s work together in creating healthy people through healthier workplaces!

Ashley Rosales, R.D.

Project Manager