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THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BLOOD LIPIDS, BODY FAT, AND WORK AND WELL-BEING

Abstract

Alissa Gunter, Larissa Boyd, Jacilyn Olson, Eric Conchola, Kara Stone, Connor Rightmire, Casey Marler and Victoria Vickers

University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK

Physical health and well-being can play a vital role in an individual’s ability to complete workplace tasks. Prior literature suggests there are positive correlations between physical activity (PA) and work production, reporting lower burnout and body mass index (BMI) and increased mental resilience and health perceptions. Further examination of workplace well-being and PA is warranted. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between well-being and blood lipids and body fat (BF%) in university employees. METHODS: The Work and Well-Being Survey (UWES) was used to analyze how participants felt at work on a 0-6 scale based on 17 statements. The UWES evaluated work-related vigor, dedication, and absorption. Participants’ blood lipids were analyzed by finger prick and collection of five µL of blood. The cholesterol LDX system evaluated high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and blood glucose (BG) levels. The Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry machine (DEXA) was utilized to measure participants’ overall BF%. A Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation test was used for analysis. RESULTS: LDL cholesterol was significantly correlated with vigor (r=.35, p=.03), dedication (r=.52, p<.001), and absorption (r=.53, p<.001). Both HDL cholesterol and total cholesterol were significantly correlated with dedication (r=-.48, p<.01; r=.55, p<.01) and absorption (r=-.42, p<.01; r=.64, p<.01 ). TG, BF%, and BG were not correlated with any work and well-being variables (p>.05). CONCLUSION: Overall well-being is vital for optimal employee performance. These data showed that work-related dedication and absorption related to unfavorable lipoprotein profiles. In conclusion, the study warrants further exploration of work-place interventions to improve overall well-being and performance of employees.

Supported by the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs

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