Everyone is talking about it: It seems that sitting down all day — something that the vast majority of us do at work — may be extremely hazardous to your health. “[A] study found sitting for prolonged periods raised the risk of cardiovascular disease by 14%, cancer by 13%, and diabetes by a whopping 91%,” CBS News report. Most alarmingly, “Those who sat for long stretches and got no regular exercise had a 40% higher risk of early death.” Of course, healthcare professionals and researchers all over the U.S. are trying to come up with ways to combat these ill effects. Do they work?
Let’s Talk About Height-Adjustable Desks
Height-adjustable desks, which can serve as standing desks, are one of the most popular solutions. A series of studies show that these height-adjustable desks are at least somewhat effective, and they do encourage workers to stand more often, rather than sitting all day long. Unfortunately, researchers fear that standing in place may not be that much better than sitting down for hours at a time. At this point, it seems that merely standing (compared to sitting) may not significantly reduce workers’ likelihood of serious health conditions. Something that promotes at least light movement, items like treadmill desks and bike pedals that fit under desks, appear to be much more beneficial.
Are You At Risk?
Of course, the key to preventative medicine may be finding a doctor and coming up with a list of questions to ask a physician. In any case, it’s a good start, and it doesn’t hurt. If you are afraid that years of sedentary habits have put you at risk, it may be time to find a doctor. Local, Florida physicians can suggests ways to be proactive about your health, even if you sit all day. Getting up to walk in short bursts, investing in a treadmill desk, and eating a balanced, nutritious diet in many cases may be all there is to it.
Preventative medicine may begin with taking a hard look at our daily routines and habits. If you tend to sit all day, consult a doctor and consider ways to break up the day with at least some physical activity.