SITTING DISEASE

Over sitting is the

new smoking

Because of the modern lifestyle and the convenience of modern-age technology, the rate of inactivity among human beings is rising at an alarming rate. A recent study by Vanderbit University showed that the average American spends approximately 55% of their time awake in sedentary conduct, such as sitting at the desk or behind a wheel. Another study by the American Cancer Society showed that 94% of women who spend at least 6 hours daily in sedentary positions have a 94% increased likelihood of acquiring serious illnesses, while men have a 48%.

Behind these statistics, a phenomenon called Sitting Disease appeared, which is broadly defined as a state of heightened sedentary conduct that in turn leads to metabolic and/or cardiovascular complications.

Numerous scientific inquiries assert that prolonged sedentary behavior, which refers to a seated or inclined position and limited energy expenditure, is strongly associated with chronic conditions such as cancer, obesity, and diabetes. To this end, sitting disease is arguably the most conspicuous yet overlooked medical threat of today.

The Negative Effects of Sitting Disease

A sedentary lifestyle certainly inhibits optimal body functionality, causing a myriad of chronic conditions such as:

·         Minimization of muscle movement, which reduces the rate at which the body digests sugars and fats.

·         Obesity,

·         Limited heart functions

·         High risk of stroke or heart attack

·         Increased insulin resistance, which leads to diabetes.

·         Varicose veins

·         Cancer

·         Spinal complications including discs’ compression. 

·         Back pain

·         Muscle contracture

How to Avoid It

As stipulated in the Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, the body conserves 352 calories for every 2 hours an individual spends sitting. For those who work at offices, it is advised to:

·         Stand up as much as they can.

·         Preferably, take walking breaks at least 3 times a day.

·         Swing arms freely, straighten their back, and roll their feet.

. Set reminder for 60-90mins to stand.

Many scientists assert that this disease is the new smoking, and we should all be aware of the consequences and how to prevent them.

Hear what James Levine, M.D., Ph.D, professor of medicine at Mayo Clinic has to say about this issue.