Driving A Truck And Staying Healthy

Virtually no one takes a job in the freight hauling industry believing that they are agreeing to a completely safe and risk-free job. However, some potential hazards of this career are better understood and more widely known than others. For example, everyone realizes that driving a large vehicle for long distances at high speeds can end in dangerous accidents. Fewer people know about the health issues that truckers face, including obesity, heart disease, and stress.

The good news is that all of these risks can be minimized by remaining committed to safety, common sense, and healthy living. Doing so is not only good for your own wellbeing as a driver. It is better for everyone who needs to share the road with you, and it is even better for your career. As you know unless you are new to this field, truckers are legally required to undergo physical examinations on a regular basis. This is because health problems that interfere with concentration or coordination can create harmful or even deadly accidents. Failing one of these exams could be the end of your job.

Important Health Advice

Driving a commercial vehicle does not have to go hand in hand with poor health. Ways to reduce your chances of serious medical complications include:

Always get plenty of sleep on a long haul. Fatigue can increase your chances of being involved in a major motor vehicle accident. In addition, studies have shown that long periods of sleep deprivation can affect your immune system and mental health. Most adults need around eight hours of sleep a night; if you are suffering from sleep disturbances, ask your doctor for advice.

Eat nutritious foods. Nutritionists recommend not living off of restaurant food if you can avoid it. Instead, you may want to bring snacks from home such as trail mix, popcorn, sandwiches, fruits and vegetables, and plenty of water. If you do eat in a restaurant, try to stick to more nutritious meals – salads, fruit, lean white meat, and so on.

Take breaks throughout the day. Of course you are on a tight schedule, but you should be able to take a few five-minute breaks here and there. Use this time to get some quick exercise – jogging, jumping jacks, sit ups, etc. It is not only good for your heart and your weight, it can also help you stay energized and focused on the road.

Staying in shape will take some effort, but it is certainly worth it.

By: Joseph Devine

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