Could your job be the source of your upper arm fat?

By Katherine Crawford M.S.

Did you know that poor work conditions can lead to more upper arm fat? Although this may sound ridiculous, research has shown this to be true.

How can we make such conclusions? Well, this groundbreaking research was done in England and showed how rank, among many other factors, can influence what you eat, how much you exercise and how much fat you carry.

So here is what to look out for at your job:

1. No control. If you aren't in control, or if you feel like you aren't in control, stress is going to rise too high. In fact, in many other areas of life, a lack of control is directly related to heightened stress hormones which can lead to more upper arm fat.

2. Excess tenseness. If you feel like you are in a constant state of tension, stress hormones are going to flood your body. And said hormones can alter levels of arm fat. One simple test is to assess how stiff your neck muscles are.

3. Clarity of given tasks. If the work you are supposed to do is unclear, stress will rise. Ask your superiors for more clearly defined work. State how your productivity will increase and never point fingers. After all, finger pointing will only increase work-related stress.

4. Your rank. The research from the UK showed that lower ranking jobs lead to more weight gain. So if you are stuck in a lower ranking position, seek out other activities in which you can be more dominant. Perhaps you have a latent talent or hobby you have forgotten about.

5. Having a mono-identity. Don't let your work define who you are. When things are going good you will feel good. But anytime something goes bad you will get flooded with all those stress hormones. Subjecting yourself to this emotional roller coaster is unnecessary.

Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do here. If your job is becoming a true nightmare despite all your efforts, you may have to find a different workplace. If this isn't possible within your company, you may have to find a different job! Then you may notice that the upper arm fat comes off a little easier! - 30535

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