Monash University-led research, published in Advances in Nutrition, has highlighted the dietary challenges faced by rotating shift workers, which could increase their risk of diet-related illnesses.
The systematic review of dietary habits and energy intake studies showed that rotating shift workers consume more kilojoules than day workers.
On average, they ate 264 more kilojoules each day, which can lead to significant weight gain over time. These workers also reported less healthy eating patterns compared to day workers, including:
- Irregular meal times.
- Increased snacking, often on junk food.
- Reduced consumption of core foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat.
- Higher intake of discretionary foods such as fried and fatty foods, confectionery, sweetened drinks, and alcohol.
The Impact of Shift Work on Health
Rotating shift work, where schedules vary weekly, is common among both women and men. In Australia alone, 1.4 million employees (16 percent) engage in shift work.
Previous research has linked shift work to a heightened risk of chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A significant factor contributing to these risks is the timing of meals, especially higher energy intake at night, which is associated with weight gain and impaired glucose metabolism.
Personal Insights from a Shift Worker
Tania Whalen, a telecommunications worker with 20 years of shift work experience, echoes the study’s findings.
She notes the convenience of grabbing junk food during shifts and the challenge of preparing and maintaining fresh meals for long 12-hour shifts.
Research Insights and Workplace Implications
Monash University Ph.D. candidate and Research Dietitian, Angela Clark, supervised by Professor Maxine Bonham, conducted a comparative study on the total daily kilojoule intake of rotating shift and day workers.
Their findings confirm that rotating shift workers tend to consume more kilojoules, particularly at night.
Clark emphasizes that improving the diets and eating patterns of shift workers is crucial, despite the unchangeable disruptive nature of their work.
She also highlights the limited access to healthy food options for these workers, leading to a reliance on vending machines, takeaway, and convenience foods.
Future Directions
Monash University, in partnership with the University of South Australia, is currently trialing weight loss strategies for night shift workers through the SWIFt Study.
This study aims to understand the complexities of circadian rhythms and meal timing in relation to weight loss.
In conclusion, this research sheds light on the unique dietary challenges faced by rotating shift workers and underscores the need for targeted workplace support and interventions to promote healthier eating habits among this vital workforce segment.
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The research findings can be found in Advances in Nutrition.
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