We all know lack of exercise can contribute to health problems. But even with exercise, sitting for too long can significantly impact your health. In fact sitting 6+ hours a day increases your risk of death by 40%. That is, individuals that sit over 6 hours a day are 40% more likely to die in the next 15 years than those who sit less than 3. Unfortunately, 6 hours a day is nothing for most of us. Driving, sitting at work on a computer, watching TV; the hours can pile up fast.
According to one study published in the European Heart Journal, “research found that long periods of sitting down, even in people who did a lot of exercise otherwise, were associated with worse indicators of cardio-metabolic function and inflammation, such as larger waist circumferences, lower levels of good cholesterol, and ..triglycerides (blood fats).”
However, there is hope. The study also found that individual that took several breaks throughout their work day or frequently broke up periods of sitting, their waists were smaller and their bodies were healthier.
Take the time to care for your body. Seek out other ways to make your commute active, take breaks at work, stretch, walk around, turn off the TV.
Moyer Wellness wants you to achieve optimal wellness, contact us today to speak with one of our knowledgeable staff.