According to the most recently released data by AIHW, heart disease is the leading cause of death in Australia. It has also been reported as many as 30,000 sudden cardiac arrests take place in Australia each year.
Cardiac arrest often has no warnings and can strike at any time. It is the abrupt loss of heart function and if appropriate steps aren’t taken immediately, it can be fatal.
As we spend an average of over 40 hours per week at work, many workplaces are making the precautionary move in having Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) added to the first aid kit. Many even consider an AED an office staple.
The use of an AED can save a life in the case of cardiac arrest, but we still need to work towards improving our heart health to avoid a situation where it needs to be used.
As many of us spend the majority of the day in the office, focusing on how we can maintain an active lifestyle and keep our heart’s healthy at work is a great place to start.
Give yourself a healthy start
Always start your day with a nutritious, high fibre breakfast. A substantial meal in the morning will keep you fuelled for the working day and supporting a fibre-rich diet has the ability to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol.
Take every opportunity to be active
It can be hard to get a healthy number of steps in each day, so make sure to take advantage of every opportunity like taking the stairs instead of the lift. Use your lunch break wisely and do some exercise or at very least, take the time to stretch your legs and go for a walk. Another great way to get a few extra steps in is getting off your bus or train a few stops earlier, or parking further away from your work.
Healthy eating
It can be easy at work to reach for unhealthy food options out of convenience when you’re running on a busy work schedule. To prevent those pesky junk food cravings, make the time to take in healthier snacks to work like fruit, nuts or chopped veggies with hummus to reduce salt intake and unhealthy fats. Being mindful of what foods you consume throughout the day is the key to maintaining a healthy heart.
Keep calm and carry on
Preventing heart disease and achieving optimal heart health requires you to look after yourself both physically and mentally. With high-stress levels linked to high blood-pressure, it is important to take care of your mind and mental wellbeing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed at work, it might be time to employ strategies to deal with stress.
Keep your head clear by staying organised at work and make a list each day, prioritising your workload. Try finding a quiet space in the office and practice techniques to reduce stress such as deep breathing and mindfulness exercises.
End the day right
It is important to recharge at the end of each working day. Make sure you’re getting a good night’s sleep, as the much-needed hours will improve your overall health and decrease the risk of heart disease. And on top of that, you’ll be feeling refreshed and ready to take on the next day.
About COS
COS is Australia’s largest privately owned office products supplier, servicing over 20,000 business customers across Australia and offering thousands of products used in today’s modern workplace. COS is a leader in Workplace Health & Safety Equipment including AEDs, First Aid Kits, and protective equipment. https://www.cos.net.au/c/workplace-health-and-safety
COS is the largest 100% Australian owned and operated B2B supplier of office products, selling over 21,000 products a year and employing over 350 staff. At the helm of it all is Belinda (pictured above), executive manager and daughter of founder Dominique Lyone. For over 11 years, Belinda has been part of the success of the family business as the General Manager for Strategic Sourcing & Marketing.
