Sitting For Long Hours Due To Work? Know How It Adversely Affects Your Health

The impact of prolonged sitting on health is multifaceted- ranging from obesity, poor posture and back pain to severe issues like heart diseases and diabetes.

Know How Sitting For Long Hours Affects Your Health

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In today’s time, long hours of sitting has become a common part of our daily lives. It refers to sitting for extended periods without break, typically for more than two hours at a time. Sedentary lifestyle and extended work hours are the main reasons behind this peril. Dr. Lakshya Bhaktiani, who is in charge of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Department, PSRI hospital said, "European Agency for Safety and Health at Work which is EU OSHA argues that two hours should be considered as the maximum time for continuous sitting and adds that employees needs to get up every 30 minutes in this time frame and change position between sitting standing and walking."

Health Impact Of Prolonged Sitting:

The impact of prolonged sitting on health is multifaceted- ranging from obesity, poor posture and back pain to severe issues like heart diseases and diabetes.

• Musculoskeletal Impact Of Prolonged Sitting:

Highlighting the musculoskeletal impact of prolonged sitting on our health, Dr. Aashish Chaudhry orthopaedic Surgeon and MD of Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, Dwarka stated, "Extended hours of sitting can result in our muscles becoming inactive that in turn can lead to weakening and stiffness. Additionally, this can contribute to poor posture, back pain and even complications like herniated discs."

• Cardiovascular Risks Associated With Prolonged Sitting:

Dr. Rajendra Patil, Consultant - Interventional Cardiologist, Jupiter Hospital, Pune said, "Sedentary lifestyle such as sitting for extended periods of time is an important risk factor for heart disease. Studies have shown that prolonged sitting is linked to elevated blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and increased risk of heart attacks and strokes."

• Metabolic Effects Of Prolonged Sitting:

The metabolic effects of prolonged sitting also need to be taken into account. Dr. Aashish said, "Long hours of sitting can affect the metabolic processes in the body which in turn can result in insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and ultimately leading to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes."

How To Mitigate Risks Associated With Prolonged Sitting:

You can mitigate the risks associated with prolonged sitting by taking regular breaks in between your working hours. Even brief intervals of walking or standing can go a long way to counteract the negative effects of long hours of sitting. Furthermore, small changes like making use of standing desks or simply standing in between extended hours of sitting can make a significant difference.

Additionally, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overemphasised in fighting against the perils of a sedentary lifestyle.

Try to engage in regular physical activity such as jogging, cycling, brisk walking to maintain your overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to offset the effects of prolonged sitting.

It is essential to choose a holistic approach to health that includes both physical activity and mindful eating habits. Along with focusing on your physical health, it is also important to pay attention to your nutrition.

For this, consume a diet rich in fresh fruits, veggies and whole grains that can help in the management of metabolic health and bring down the risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]