Long Hours Linked to Obesity, Study Finds

The team said work stress and a lack of time may explain the link. Stress raises a chemical called cortisol, which makes the body store fat. People who work long hours also have less time to cook healthy food or exercise. The researchers found that a 1% cut in working hours was linked to a 0.16% drop in obesity. But they warned this does not prove that long hours cause obesity.

Some groups in the United Kingdom want a four-day working week. They say a shorter week could help people live healthier lives. The study suggests that a 20% cut in working hours could lead to half a million fewer obese Britons. About 200 UK companies have already changed to a four-day week. But other experts are not sure. The UK government will not force the change, but will make flexible work easier.