Study finds silver lining in poor economy: Healthier lifestyles

Poor economic conditions may actually be forcing people to cease unhealthy habits.

A recent survey from CareerBuilder.com shows that more than 20 percent of employees have cut back on their smoking and another 20 percent have kicked the habit.

Employees have also reported making improvements to their diet. Nearly 50 percent of workers reported bringing their lunch from home in order to save money and be healthier, the survey found.

Employees who have quit smoking and opt to bring their lunch to work may benefit from having more cash in their wallet.

"In addition to helping cut personal costs, employees who limit their smoking and lunching out habits are taking better care of their overall health," says CareerBuilder human resources vice president Rosemary Haefner.

The American Cancer Society says that 50 percent of smokers will eventually die from an illness associated with the practice. Smokers are at an increased risk of various types of cancers as well as heart attacks and strokes. People who quit, or at least reduce their smoking habit may benefit from reduced health and life insurance costs.