Movement is what the human body is created for but unfortunately, most individuals in America, spend more time being immobile in their seats for hours. Studies show that American adults spend an average of 10 hours per day just sitting of which an hour of workout can do nothing about.
According to a scientist named Katy Browman who wrote the book Move Your DNA: Restore Your Health Through Natural Movement,
“Actively sedentary is a new category of people who are fit for one hour but sitting around the rest of the day… You can’t offset 10 hours of stillness with one hour of exercise.”
The side effects of sitting too long may be worse than it seems. Dr. James Levine, the author of the book Get Up! Why Your Chair Is Killing You and What You Can Do About It investigated its effects and revealed that the molecules of carbon monoxide are arranged atomically which is better known as molecular cascades.
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When a person becomes stagnant for so long and then suddenly creates movement, molecular effects such as the activation of cellular systems happen. In this case, it is noted that a simple carrying of bodyweight is vital to improving one’s health.
Among the most affected areas of the body when a person begins to sit still all day are the heart, pancreas, digestive system, brain muscles, and legs. It may also cause colon and breast cancer and is predicted to be due to the extra production of insulin.
To avoid permanent problems in the future, it is advised that simple exercises or standing up every 15 minutes will reduce the chances of reaching the footstool of death earlier as sitting still for a long period is known to be a silent killer.
Here are some side effects of sitting too long:
- Heart Damage
- Brain Damage
- Leg Disorders
- Lower Lifespan
- Pancreas Problems
- Cancers
- Slower Digestion
- Posture Problems
- Muscle Degeneration
- Bone Problems
Continuously moving while working on an important assignment may be time consuming but essential if you want a quality life. A simple stretching, leg movement and sitting straight is helpful in order to allow blood circulation in the body.
If your job requires you to sit in front of your computer all day, make sure you integrate movement throughout your day, you can also try a standing desk if possible.
See: 7 Benefits of Using Standing Desks According to Science
Here are some things that you can try:
- Instead of sending an email or text, walk across the hall to your officemate.
- Take the stairs daily.
- Do not choose the nearest parking space.
- Do detours on the way to your desk.
- Walk along the corridor instead of going straight to the comfort room during breaks.
See: 5 Health Tips if You Sit at a Computer Desk All Day