The year-end festive season had a measurable impact on the health of corporate employees in India, triggering short-term disruptions across metabolic, lifestyle and mental wellbeing indicators. According to the Wellness Pulse 2025 report, festive indulgence, reduced physical activity and irregular sleep patterns led to temporary but noticeable health changes.

The report found that blood sugar abnormalities increased by 5% immediately after the festive period, while average daily step counts dropped by 18%, reflecting a significant fall in physical activity. Liver health was the most affected, with abnormal liver function markers rising by 8.9% post-festivities. Mental wellbeing also took a hit, with mental health consultations increasing by 21% as employees transitioned back to regular work routines.

Women showed greater sensitivity to metabolic changes, recording a 7% rise in blood sugar fluctuations, while employees aged 31–40 experienced the strongest diet-related impacts. States such as Haryana, Maharashtra, Kerala and Telangana saw the highest post-festival increase in metabolic risk indicators.

Despite these disruptions, the report highlights a strong and swift recovery in preventive healthcare behaviour. Preventive test bookings rose by 16% in the weeks following the festive season, with increased demand for lipid profiles, liver function tests, HbA1c panels and thyroid screenings. Digital engagement on ekincare’s platform jumped 24% year-on-year, driven by teleconsultations, wellbeing programmes and proactive health monitoring.

Kiran Kalakuntla, CEO and Co-founder of ekincare, said the data reflects a growing shift in mindset among employees, with preventive care becoming a priority supported by employers and policymakers. As companies plan for 2025, the focus is increasingly moving toward year-round preventive healthcare to build healthier and more resilient workplaces.