There are a lot of dangerous occupations in America. While many people would assume that firefighters or the police have the highest number of fatalities, that distinction actually belongs to truckers. Truckers account for the highest number of work-related deaths. Although most of that has to do with highway collisions, truckers are also at a high risk for death related to obesity and a general unhealthy lifestyle.

Being a trucker means long hours on the road and not much opportunity for exercise. You're cooped up in a cab, you get some short breaks throughout the day, and you don't have a lot of choices when it comes to what you eat. Fast food is easy to get, but it's full of fat and cholesterol. Donuts and other fatty snacks are tempting and easy to get, too. But those are the very things truckers should try to avoid.

There are a few things truckers can do to try and improve their health. Taking walks during your breaks is an excellent way to start. You should try to get in at least thirty minutes of activity each day. Even three fifteen minute walks during the day will help a lot. You can also improve your health by making an effort to buy healthier foods, even when it isn't always convenient.

Also, you need to try and get enough rest. Easier said than done when there are deadlines to meet, but rest is essential for health and safety. Also, make sure you take your vacations and days off--we all need time to relax.