One of the most important things that people can do for their health is to get moving — and often. On the flip side, it is well-known that too much sitting is bad for health.
A sedentary lifestyle has been associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. For those who spend a lot of their day chained to a desk, this can be discouraging, but a new study has good news about the dangers of sitting.
Spending a lot of time sitting has long been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death. A new study has discovered that individuals who spend a lot of time sitting for work do not face the same health risks as those who sit a lot to watch television. Changes in lifestyle, like watching less TV and finding leisurely activities that require some movement, are the key to avoiding the negative consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.
Watch Less Television for a Healthier Future.
What We Do While We Sit Matters
In 2019, the Journal of The American Heart Association took a closer look at the effects of sitting, including differences that might exist between different types of sedentary behavior. Using data collected on nearly 3,600 black adults, they determined that not all types of sitting are equally dangerous for health.
Instead, it was determined that what we do while we sit matters. Leisurely sitting, specifically watching television, comes with the highest risk of cardiovascular disease over the long term. Those who spend a lot of downtime watching TV were also found to be more likely to die of any cause. Comparatively, occupational sitting, or the sitting we do at work, wasn’t associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death.
Combatting the Effects of a Sedentary Lifestyle
For individuals who do spend a lot of time watching television, it is possible to combat the effects of a sedentary lifestyle and lower their risks of chronic disease and death. Getting ample exercise each week is the key. The American Heart Association recommends a minimum of 150 minutes each week, especially for those who spend a lot of time sitting and watching television.
Additionally, the researchers behind this study suggested that individuals at high risk should be encouraged to find leisurely activities that keep them active. This could include starting a garden, fishing or taking grandkids to the park.
Finding ways to move more, especially by including activities that are enjoyable and relaxing, benefits all lifestyles. Whether you’re spending a lot of time working behind a computer or have gotten into the habit of hitting the couch at the end of the day, your health will improve from including more exercise in your daily life.
~Here’s to Your Healthy Ascension!
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