In today's competitive business environment, forward-thinking New Zealand companies and workplace health insurance providers are looking beyond traditional wellness programs to support their most valuable asset: their people. One area gaining significant attention is gut health, a foundational element of overall wellbeing that has profound implications for workplace productivity, mental health, and healthcare costs.

UniMed is proud to announce our partnership with the Gut Foundation, a leading organisation in New Zealand that is working to raise awareness about bowel cancer and improve gut health. This partnership will allow us to provide our Members with more educational resources and events focused on gut health.

The hidden connection between gut health and workplace performance

Did you know that 95%¹ of your "feel-good" hormone serotonin is produced in the small intestine? Recent research has established clear links between gut microbiome health and cognitive function, mood regulation, energy levels, and immune system strength. All these factors directly impact workplace performance and absenteeism.

The business case for investing in gut health through workplace health insurance

For businesses and their workplace health insurance partners across the country, the numbers tell a compelling story:

• Bowel cancer is the second highest cause of death affecting New Zealanders^2, with significant impacts on workforce health and continuity
• The South Island leads the world in reported cases of Inflammatory Bowel Disease³, creating unique challenges for NZ employers

These statistics translate into tangible business challenges: increased sick leave, reduced productivity, and higher healthcare costs. But progressive companies with comprehensive workplace health insurance plans are discovering that proactive gut health initiatives offer an excellent return on investment.

How leading kiwi companies are integrating gut health into workplace

Forward-thinking organisations are already implementing gut health awareness and support programs. Companies like Forsyth Barr Investment Services, Hawkins Construction, Vital Healthcare and Zespri have joined the movement toward better gut health for their teams.

These initiatives go beyond generic "eat more fiber" advice, offering:

1. Evidence-based education on the gut-brain connection
2. Preventative screening programs through workplace health insurance such as test kits and CTC (CT Colonography) scans that can detect issues early when they're most treatable
3. Workplace environment modifications that support gut-friendly habits
4. Food and nutrition guidance that acknowledges the role of diet in gut microbiome health

The mind-gut connection: implications for workplace mental health

The emerging science on the gut-brain connection is relevant for workplace mental health strategies and employee insurance coverage. Research shows that gut bacteria influence our vulnerability to conditions including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

"Some bacteria make oxytocin, a hormone our own bodies produce that encourages increased social behaviour. Other bacteria make substances that cause symptoms of depression and anxiety. Still others make substances that help us to be calmer under stress," notes The Gut Foundation's research.

For HR professionals and business leaders, this insight offers a new pathway to support mental wellbeing that complements existing mental health initiatives in their workplace.

Implementing a gut health program: practical steps for your business

For organisations looking to incorporate gut health into their workplace wellness strategy, these evidence-based approaches offer an excellent starting point:

1. Education and awareness

Partner with organisations like The Gut Foundation to deliver gut health talks and workshops. Over 7,000 people have benefited from such presentations since March 2023 alone.

2. Screening support through workplace health insurance

Encourage eligible employees to access the National Bowel Screening Programme and take advantage of preventative checks. Early detection drastically improves outcomes for gut-related conditions.

3. Dietary support

The workplace environment significantly influences eating habits. Simple changes like offering fermented foods, high-fibre options, and reducing ultra-processed foods in company cafeterias can make a significant difference.

4. Strategic health insurance partnerships

Consider forming a strategic partnership with workplace health insurance providers specialising in gut health. UniMed's recent partnership with The Gut Foundation provides their members with educational resources, expert presentations, and access to major events.

Measuring the impact: ROI on gut health initiatives in workplace

For data-driven organisations, measuring the impact of gut health programs is essential. Key performance indicators might include:

• Reduction in absenteeism related to digestive issues
• Changes in healthcare utilisation for gut-related conditions through workplace health insurance claims
• Employee feedback on energy levels and cognitive function
• Participation rates in preventative screening programs offered through workplace health insurance

Conclusion: gut health as a competitive advantage

As awareness of the gut microbiome's role in overall health continues to grow, businesses that take a proactive approach to supporting employees' gut health will likely see multiple benefits: reduced healthcare costs, improved productivity, enhanced employee satisfaction, and strengthened organisational resilience.

By integrating gut health into broader wellbeing strategies and workplace health insurance offerings, HR professionals and executive leaders have an opportunity to address a fundamental aspect of health that has been overlooked in traditional workplace wellness programs while creating a significant competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.

This blog post is part of our ongoing series on workplace health and wellness. For more information on implementing gut health initiatives in your organisation's workplace health insurance program, contact us to learn about partnership opportunities with The Gut Foundation.

References

1. Selhub, E. (2022, September 18). Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food . Harvard Health Blog; Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626 

2. About the National Bowel Screening Programme - Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. (2018). Govt.nz. https://www.tewhatuora.govt.nz/health-services-and-programmes/national-bowel-screening-programme/about

3. The Gut Foundation NZ

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