According to a study done by the CDC, we spend way too much time sitting down. Sitting is the new smoking, according to some health experts. What makes sitting so bad for your health?
Leading a sedentary lifestyle can create massive complications. Eighty-six percent of Americans sit all day for their job, and it is impacting their health. In this article, we’ll dive into all the health risks of sitting at a desk all day.
The Main Health Risks of Sitting at a Desk All Day
There is a myriad of conditions associated with sitting too much. These are often chronic conditions, meaning they develop over time.
Working a desk job puts you at increased risk of developing these conditions:
Obesity
Sitting too long can negatively impact the way your body digests food. Because of this, you burn calories at a slower rate and start to gain weight. The body requires 60-75 minutes of moderate exercise a day; without it, you’re at risk of obesity.
Obesity can lead to comorbidities as well. One of these is metabolic syndrome, which is common among desk workers.
Heart Disease
Many studies have found links between excessive sitting and heart disease. Leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to higher cholesterol levels, which hurt the heart.
Heart disease develops over time, so it’s not too late to take preventative measures. If you work a desk job, keep a low-cholesterol diet to lower your risk of heart disease.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot that forms in the veins of your leg. They are caused by long periods of prolonged sitting and chronic sitting. DVT can lead to pulmonary embolism and require medical intervention.
DVT is a worst-case scenario for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. But they worsen quickly, so take all the preventative measures you can.
How to Incorporate Ergonomics in the Workplace
One of the fastest ways to stand more at work is by converting your desk to a standing desk. If purchasing a full standing desk is out of the question, you can find a platform that lifts your computer to eye level. This way, you can stand while working in the office and from home!
Also, take frequent walks around the office and incorporate exercise when you can. Propose a company-wide ergonomics initiative to help all employees protect their health. Get the whole office together to hold each other accountable for getting more active!
Lead a Healthier Life by Sitting Less
We hope this article helped show you the health risks of sitting at a desk all day. If you’re ready to make a positive change in your health, start standing more! A few small changes can lead to great benefits.
For more advice and news, read through our blog. We bring you up-to-date information to help improve your lifestyle. Check our past posts for more!