Sedentary Behavior Increases Mortality Risk
Sedentary behavior, such as sitting for long periods, has been shown to increase the risk of mortality, regardless of exercise levels. A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that older women who sat for 11.7 hours or more per day had a 30 percent increased risk of death. Sedentary behavior reduces blood flow and metabolism, leading to negative health effects that cannot be reversed by exercise.
The Dangers of Prolonged Sitting and How to Counteract Them
Sitting for prolonged periods of time is linked to numerous health issues, including an increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, stroke, heart disease, kidney disease, digestive diseases, and Alzheimer’s disease. New research has found that individuals who spend most of their workday sitting have a 16% higher risk of dying for any reason and are 34% more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. Experts recommend taking a break from sitting every 30 minutes and engaging in exercises such as hip flexor stretches, squats, lunges, and glute bridges to counteract the harmful effects of prolonged sitting.