The Surprising Effects on Physical Health of a Sedentary Lifestyle

Sitting for prolonged periods is not a new challenge. Nevertheless, with the advent of a sedentary way of life come new health challenges that most people are unprepared for. In recent times, it is estimated that a sedentary lifestyle accounts for about 16% of all deaths globally. It is, thus, imperative for everyone, regardless of age, sex, and lifestyle, to take the adverse effects of prolonged sitting seriously. In this article, we will explore the surprising effects of physical health that a sedentary lifestyle can land us in.

Back and Neck Pain

The more you sit, the more pressure is exerted on your back and neck. If you sit in the wrong posture, the pain may worsen, leading to a range of complications, including chronic pain, mobility issues, and even depression and anxiety. One study identified that people who sit for too long were more likely to have chronic low back pain than those who remained active.

Obesity and Metabolic Diseases

Prolonged sitting decreases the body’s ability to use glucose, its primary source of energy. This lack of glucose utilization leads to weight gain and the development of metabolic diseases like diabetes. A study found that individuals who sit for more than 8 to 10 hours a day have a 90% higher risk of developing diabetes and a 24% higher risk of developing heart-related diseases.

Anxiety and Depression

People who have sedentary lifestyles are prone to depression and anxiety and often have poorer self-esteem. The reasons for these states of mind may be the lack of mobility and a sense of being stagnant and unproductive. Some experts suggest that regular exercise can help relieve anxiety and depression caused by a sedentary lifestyle.

Cancer

Excessive sedentary behavior and prolonged sitting may also increase the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as colon cancer and breast cancer. A study found that people who sit for more than six hours a day have an increased risk of developing these types of cancer.

Conclusion

The adverse effects of sitting all day on physical health cannot be overstated. The findings presented here serve as a call to action to everyone to take measures to avoid a sedentary way of life. Maintaining an active lifestyle, even if it is just walking, can help prevent the medical conditions presented above. Furthermore, adopting a proper seating position, maintaining good posture, and taking regular breaks to stretch and move around can also help in the fight against the negative impact of a sedentary lifestyle.