Unum UK’s health and wellbeing app, Help@hand, has seen strong demand for nutrition support, especially from women.
Help@hand’s nutrition service has delivered 6,225 consultations of which 70 per cent were booked by women since launching in April 2023. The most common age group was 26-35 (37 per cent), followed by 36-45 (31 per cent).
Unum UK Head of Proposition Development Saumya Barber says: “It’s encouraging to see so many people proactively accessing Help@hand to improve their dietary habits, as its central to our overall health. Our engagement data suggests that workers are increasingly prioritising preventative health care like nutritional advice and coaching as part of a holistic view of their wellbeing.”
Unum medical Advisor Dr Rebecca Mansfield says: “Our food choices have a profound impact on energy levels, cognitive function, mood, and overall physical and mental wellbeing. By fuelling our bodies with a balanced diet and adopting healthy eating habits, we can significantly enhance focus and productivity, both in and outside of the workplace.
“Whilst men are increasingly prioritising health and nutrition, evidence suggests that women are more likely to proactively seek help from health professionals, particularly for preventative care. Unum’s stats are showing this trend in action.
“But nutrition plays a crucial role in men’s health, too. Poor dietary choices can lead to decreased fertility, whereas a balanced, nutrient-rich diet helps maintain a healthy weight which reduces the risk of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer. So it’s vital that men start to be more proactive about their nutrition and long-term health.”
Barber says: “Comprehensive health and wellbeing support is essential for living well and working better. For businesses, the workplace can serve as a key gateway to educate and equip employees with the knowledge and tools to enhance their health and drive productivity. As a new year brings an emphasis on healthy lifestyle and dietary choices, we hope to see more male employees thinking seriously about the power of nutrition and preventative healthcare.”
