Why Sitting Too Much Is Bad for Your Health

It Hurts Your Heart

Scientists initially acknowledged something was wrong in a study that contrasted two similar groups: transit drivers, who sit for most of the day, and conductors or guards, who do not. Despite having similar diets and habits, individuals who sat were roughly twice as likely as those who stood to develop heart disease.

It Can Shorten Your Life

If you sit for long periods of time, you are more likely to die for any reason. It makes no difference whether you work out every day or not. Of course, this is no reason to miss the gym. Your time may be cut even shorter if you do this.

Dementia Is More Likely

If you sit too much, your brain may resemble that of someone suffering from dementia. Sitting also increases your chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, all of which have a part in the illness. Moving throughout the day can help lessen your risk of all of these health concerns even more than exercise.

You’ll Undo All That Exercise

Exercising is difficult to counteract the consequences of excessive sitting. Even if you exercise 7 hours per week — considerably more than the recommended 2–3 hours — you will not be able to reverse the consequences of sitting for 7 hours. Don’t waste all of your hard work at the gym by spending the rest of the day on the couch. Continue to move!

Your Odds of Diabetes Rise

Yes, if you sit all day, you are more likely to have it. It’s not just because you’re burning less calories. It appears to be the actual sitting that does it. It’s unclear why, but scientists believe sitting changes how your body reacts to insulin, the hormone that helps your body burn sugar and carbs for energy.

You Could Get DVT

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a clot that forms in your leg, usually as a result of sitting for an extended period of time. If the clot breaks free and lodges in your lung, it can be fatal. Some people experience swelling and pain, but others do not. That is why it is advisable to break up long sitting sessions.

You’ll Gain Weight

Do you watch a lot of television? Have you ever spent hours on the web? You have a higher chance of being overweight or obese. If you exercise every day, that is great, but it will not make a significant difference in the excess weight you gain as a result of too much screen time.

Your Anxiety Might Spike

It’s possible that you’re frequently alone and engrossed in a screen-based pastime. If this interferes with your sleep, you may become even more nervous. Furthermore, spending too much time alone can cause you to withdraw from friends and loved ones, which is linked to social anxiety. Scientists are still attempting to determine the precise cause.

It Wrecks Your Back

Sitting puts a lot of strain on your back muscles, neck, and spine. If you slouch, it’s even worse. Look for an ergonomic chair, which means it will be the perfect height and will support your back in the right places. But keep in mind that no matter how comfy you become, your back will not appreciate an extended sitting session. Every half hour, get up and move around for a minute or two to keep your spine in line.

It Leads to Varicose Veins

If you sit for a longer length of time, blood might pool in your legs. This increases the pressure in your veins. Varicose veins are caused by veins that expand, twist, or protrude. Spider veins, or bundles of damaged blood arteries, may also be visible nearby. They are usually not dangerous, but they can cause pain. If you require treatment, your doctor can inform you of your alternatives.

If You Don’t Move It, You Could Lose It

Older persons who are not physically active are more prone to develop osteoporosis (weakening bones) and may eventually become unable to perform basic daily functions such as bathing or using the bathroom. While moderate activity will not prevent it, you do not need to run a marathon or take up farming to stay mobile in your golden years. Just don’t sit on the couch for hours at a time.

Your Cancer Risk Goes Up

You may be prone to colon, endometrial, or lung cancer. The more you sit, the better your chances are. Breast cancer is more common in older women. That doesn’t change if you’re extremely active. What is important is how much you sit.

How to Take a Stand

Increase your daily mobility by standing up and stretching every half hour or so. Pinch your toes. Go for a walk around the workplace. For a portion of the day, sit at your desk. Purchase a movable desk or build your own: Place your PC atop a box. Speak with your manager about getting a treadmill desk. All of these items can assist to mitigate the negative effects of prolonged sitting and keep you on the path to good health.