Small studies have suggested that jobs in which women have little control, high demands, and an unsupportive boss can put us at higher risk for high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes, all of which will raise the odds for a heart attack or stroke. Not surprisingly, stay-at-home moms with unreasonable or emotionally distant spouses are also more likely to develop these health problems.
At this month's annual meeting of the American Heart Association, researchers with the Women's Health Study reported on the long-term effects of stress on women's heart health. The study included over 17,000 women in the health professions, and followed them over the course of 10 years. Not surprisingly, women who endured the highest levels of stress were 40% more likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease, including blocked arteries, heart attacks, and strokes.
Avoiding stress sounds great, but for many of us, it is not an option. We need those jobs, our boss is not leaving any time soon, and our power to change the culture of the workplace may be limited. Instead, create a sense of control by changing your own responses. Develop positive and supportive social networks at work and at home. Learn to manage your time and energy as effectively and efficiently as possible. Eat well. A diet high in sugar, simple carbs, and bad (saturated and trans) fats will ensure that you continue to feel sluggish, unmotivated, and overwhelmed. Choose a Mediterranean diet instead. (Here's a book to help get you started: The New Mediterranean Diet Cookbook: A Delicious Alternative for Lifelong Health
). And no matter what else you do, make time to exercise. The energy and fitness you develop will empower you to tackle your work with more energy and optimism.
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