Open access / This article is available online: DOI: 10.4455/eu.2026.022
A nationwide analysis of dietary habits, weight change, sleep, physical activity, and the need for health promotion
Introduction
In 2023, approximately 339,000 police officers were employed in Germany, the majority of whom work within a shift system and are therefore exposed to considerable physical as well as psychological demands [1]. Knauth and Hornberger define shift work as a form of work scheduling characterized by alternative or consistently atypical hours, for example permanent night shifts [2]. Around 14.8% of the working population in Germany is engaged in shift work [3].
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), shift work is associated with adverse health risks, as it disrupts the circadian rhythm and may thereby impair key physiological functions such as sleep, metabolism, and appetite [4–6]. This results in increased health burdens among police personnel. Federal and state police forces seek to prevent such health impacts through the implementation of health-promoting shift schedules and improvements to nutritional conditions while on duty [7, 8]. Legal frameworks, such as the Working Hours Act, regulate working and rest periods, while permitting exceptions under certain conditions [9, 10]. In practice, however, prescribed rest periods are often not adhered to [8]. Furthermore, internal guidelines, for instance those issued by the Federal Office of Administration, provide specifications for limiting night shifts and structuring breaks in order to stabilize the circadian rhythm [11–13]. The present nationwide study provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of shift work on dietary behavior, weight development, sleep, and physical activity among police officers. It further examines the extent to which currently existing health promotion projects and measures address the identified high demand for information and support among those affected. …
Abstract
Shift work constitutes a significant strain on the dietary and health-related behaviors of police officers due to irregular working hours as well as high physical and psychological demands. The present nationwide study provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of shift work on dietary habits, weight development, sleep patterns, and physical activity among police officers. It further examines the extent to which existing health promotion projects and measures address the considerable need for information and support identified among those affected.
As part of a Germany-wide online survey, 1,091 police officers engaged in shift work were questioned regarding their dietary habits, weight development, physical activity, and sleep. The quantitative data were analyzed statistically, while open-ended responses were subjected to qualitative analysis using MAXQDA.
The results indicate that lack of time, fatigue, and limited availability of healthy food options represent key barriers to a balanced diet. In addition, gender-specific differences were identified with regard to perceived stressors and dietary strategies. The study demonstrates that shift work has a significant impact on dietary behavior. Existing informational materials should therefore be systematically evaluated and more effectively communicated to the target group.
