Almost three-quarters (71%) of Gen Z and millennials would quit their job tomorrow for one that better supports their well-being, as revealed in the 2024 State of Healthy Eating and Well-being Report from Lifesum, the leading global healthy eating platform, trusted by companies including Amazon, GE, and PayPal.
The report surveyed 10,000 Gen Z and millennials and shows that 69% would be more productive if their employer improved their well-being, while 31% would consider a pay cut in exchange for a happier and healthier work environment.
“The report is a wake-up call for employers to grasp the needs of Gen Z and millennials who are redefining company loyalty by prioritizing personal well-being in career choices,” says Markus Falk, CEO at Lifesum. “The report underscores how a nutrition-first approach can foster long-term well-being, benefiting mental, physical, and emotional health. This, in turn, enhances workplace productivity and satisfaction.”
The report analyzes factors that contribute to a fulfilling work experience, including health and wellness goals, stress and mental health, and sleep.
Health and Wellness Goals
When asked about their top three health and wellness goals, Gen Z and millennials prioritize physical fitness (88%), mental health and stress management (71%), and sleep quality (54%). Workplace stress was highlighted as a critical concern with 75% willing to leave their employer over a toxic work culture.
Functional foods that achieve health goals emerged as a key trend with 73% of respondents eating for enhanced energy, 61% for improved mental health, and 40% for better sleep. This trend is reflected on Lifesum as “snackable supplements” that allow users to incorporate vitamin, protein, and energy snacking into their diet.
Emerging trends will include a rise in adaptogenic foods known for their stress-relieving properties, including mushroom latte powders, and sleep-inducing foods rich in melatonin and magnesium.
“Gen Z and millennials see functional nutrition as vital for holistic wellness, which impacts productivity and stress. Corporate wellness programs will recognize the crucial role of personalized nutrition in fostering a fulfilling work experience and improving workplace outcomes,” says Falk.
The Nutrition-Sleep Connection
The report unveils the intricate interplay between nutrition and sleep among young employees. While 50% of respondents believe their dietary decisions “very much” influence their energy levels during the day, 83% express a likelihood to modify their eating habits to improve sleep quality.
Emerging trends will include a rise in foods with sleep-inducing substances, and greater adoption of tech-enabled solutions, including Lifesum’s sleep tracking feature in partnership with Oura that allows users to understand how diet impacts their sleeping patterns.
“Gen Z and millennials deeply value the intersection of sleep and nutrition,” Falk says. “Corporate wellness programs will increasingly acknowledge how sleep and nutrition impacts productivity and overall well-being, which will lead to a comprehensive strategy that optimizes a healthy work-life balance.”
Nourishing Longevity
The report identifies how Gen Z and millennials are trailblazing the longevity movement. When asked about health and wellness goals, 51% of respondents claim they actively engage in practices that promote longevity and well-being, while 56% consider taking immediate action to enhance longevity.
Considering the top three ways in which respondents define a long and fulfilling life, 33% highlight physical well-being, 28% say it is achieving specific life milestones, while mental and cognitive wellness emerges as significant for 21% of respondents.
Emerging longevity trends will see a rise in personalized nutrition programs, the adoption of sustainable and mindful eating habits, and increased utilization of mental health programs.
“Organizational culture plays a pivotal role in shaping employee well-being and workplace outcomes,” Falk says. “The report underscores how Gen Z and millennials use nutrition to promote overall wellness across various aspects of their lives. This will have a knock-on effect for employers and pave the way for nutrition-first corporate wellness strategies that optimize employee health and productivity.”
