The eating habits and lifestyle habits of shift workers: findings from the 2018 National Health and Nutrition Survey, Japan.

Shift work increases chronic disease risk, but specific contributing factors, such as diet and lifestyle remain unclear. We compared eating habits and lifestyle characteristics between male and female shift and daytime workers across a variety of occupations using data from the 2018 Japan National Health and Nutrition Survey (n=1,814). Our analysis focused on food intake, lifestyle characteristics, and considerations in food selection between shift and daytime workers. Both male and female shift workers consumed significantly less fish and shellfish and had a shorter sleep duration than daytime workers. Male shift workers were more likely to select food based on preference and convenience than male daytime workers. Female shift workers consumed less milk and dairy products, and were less likely to choose foods based on seasons and seasonality than female daytime workers. These findings suggest that both male and female shift workers should be encouraged to increase their intake of fish and shellfish, while prioritizing adequate sleep and dietary variety; additionally, female shift workers in particular should be advised to increase their consumption of milk and dairy products for maintaining health. Adopting these nutritional and lifestyle adjustments is essential for mitigating the long-term health risks associated with shift work.