Sedentary Life Health Risks And Ways To Reverse

In the mid-20th century, technological advancements and changes in lifestyle led to a sedentary trend. Most of us now choose this stationary lifestyle, which has a negative impact on our health. Americans spend over 70% of their awake time sitting, and this lack of movement is associated with 3.2 million deaths annually.

A study of adults over 50 found that the effects of inactivity vary by frailty level, with the highest level experiencing the most severe impact. From 2001 to 2016, the amount of sitting time in the US remained high and stable, and the average American spends at least six to eight hours a day being sedentary, mostly watching TV or using the computer.

Living a sedentary lifestyle has numerous dangers. It can increase the risk of heart disease, as sitting for too long slows blood flow and allows fatty acids to clog the heart. It also raises the risk of diabetes by not using blood sugar properly, and reduces circulation, leading to swollen ankles, blood clots, and pain. Additionally, it can cause fuzzy thinking and a decline in cognitive functions, and is linked to a loss of muscle and bone strength. Even if you exercise regularly, it may not be enough to counteract the hours of sitting.

However, there are ways to reverse a sedentary lifestyle. Just 22 minutes to one hour of daily exercise, such as cycling at 10 mph or brisk walking, can lower the risk of early death caused by too much sitting at work. An hour of moderate-level physical activity a day can cancel out the increased risk of death associated with a sedentary lifestyle. While one hour of exercise doesn’t completely eliminate the risk from too much TV time sitting, it does reduce the risk.

To combat a sedentary lifestyle, move and exercise more. Americans spend most of their lifetimes indoors and a significant portion of each day sitting. The World Health Organization estimates a lack of physical activity is linked to 3.2 million deaths yearly. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, reduces circulation, and leads to cognitive issues and muscle and bone weakness. But by increasing movement and exercise, you can counter these effects. Remember, even small amounts of activity can make a difference. So, get up, move around, and take care of your health.