Source: JLco – Julia Amaral / Getty
Is sitting the new smoking?
An article by Better Health Channel detailed the health risks both share – and the similarities are shocking.
Smoking is dangerous for obvious reasons. Inhaling the toxic chemicals from cigarettes can trigger an array of cardiovascular issues. In other words, it can harm nearly every organ in your body. Smokers have increased risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as developing type 2 diabetes, inflammation, and breathing issues. Not to mention cigarette smoke contains 70 known cancer causing chemicals. Lung, mouth, nose, larynx, tongue, and even intestinal cancers can all be linked back to the habit.
Surprisingly, one who lives a sedentary lifestyle can have mirroring health issues. Better Health reports physical inactivity contributes to over three million preventable deaths worldwide. Annually, that’s six percent of all deaths. It is the fourth leading cause of death due to non-communicable diseases. Like smokers, those who are sedentary have increased risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Also, type 2 diabetes and some cancers, including those of the lungs, uterine, or colon. Inactivity can prevent proper blood flow causing varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. Stiff neck and shoulder, arthritis, weight gain, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure are also linked to being sedentary.
Regular activity does the opposite. Your cardiovascular system and bodily functions operate more effectively. Energy levels and endurance improve. Bones and muscles are strengthened. It also aids in the ability to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise is even proven to ease poor mental health symptoms like depression and anxiety. This is because movement releases endorphins, aka the happy hormone, helping take your mind off worries. Experts at The Mayo Clinic say exercise is a healthy way to cope with grief, get social interaction, and gain confidence.
The plight of many is the sedentary jobs they hold. Often required to sit at a desk for hours at a time, people are just not getting enough movement throughout the day. If you work from home, your “desk” could also be the bed or couch. – Great motivators for ensuring comfort, but not health. – Without physical activity built into your work day, it is easy to fall victim to inevitable health problems it causes.
But being active during a busy work day isn’t as hard as you think. Small changes to your everyday schedule can make a big difference.
Here are simple ways to increase physical activity throughout the day.
Walk or cycle to work – Get your steps in early and soak in the summer sun before the day becomes sweltering.
Eat lunch early and walk during your break – Help your food digest, combat insulin spikes, and beat post-lunch fatigue with fresh air.
Take stairs instead of elevator – An easy way to get your heart pumping when you’re at the office.
Get a walking pad and standing desk – Great for those WFH, this hack is a no-brainer for getting your steps in and keeping your blood flowing through the day.
Follow a 5-minute workout – Like this ab video you can do at your desk that also helps with posture.
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