Did you know that almost 50% of American adults are obese? Since obesity is one of the leading causes of death, this statistic represents a major public health crisis.
The obesity rate in America is one of the risks of a sedentary lifestyle. If you work all day, it's easy to fall into a routine of sitting. You can be sitting on the commute to work, sitting at work, sitting on the way home, and then sitting in front of the TV.
Mental exhaustion makes it tempting to succumb to a sedentary lifestyle. But the sedentary lifestyle risks are severe and wide-reaching, and it's worth being proactive for your health to avoid them.
If you've ever wondered how bad a sedentary lifestyle can be for you, read on.
1. Obesity
There is a strong association between sitting time and body composition. Increased time sitting leads to greater concentrations of heart fat and visceral fat. It also leads to a larger waist circumference.
This is true for both children and adults alike. Sitting for long periods every day can cause obesity and other related risks like diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer.
Breaking up sitting time with small walks is linked to lower BMI scores and fewer sedentary lifestyle effects.
If you take a peek at some of the causes of belly fat, you'll see how easily you can prevent it by starting a more active lifestyle.
2. Heart Disease
If you don't lift weights, your muscles get weak. The same thing goes for your heart. If you don't give it a workout, it gets weaker.
A weak heart increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart events. Obesity and sedentary lifestyles show increased risks of high blood pressure, heart attack, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and more.
If you're concerned about your heart health, it's worth asking your doctor "What are the signs of heart disease?" so you can be informed and remain alert. It's also worth taking steps to break up your sedentary lifestyle.
3. Mental Health Problems
A sedentary lifestyle doesn't just affect your body, it affects your mind too. Sedentary lifestyles are connected with high risks of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress.
Both screen time and sitting time are linked to a high risk of developing mental health disorders and dementia. Lower levels of screen time and less time sitting are associated with a more successful aging process.
Prevent Sedentary Lifestyle Risks
What is a sedentary lifestyle? Well, it's a lifestyle where the individual spends more time sitting than they do moving, and subsequently, fails to get at least 20 minutes of exercise a day.
Luckily, sedentary lifestyle solutions are pretty simple. Consider taking breaks for the last 10 minutes of every hour and walk around. You could even get a standing desk instead of a sitting one.
Replacing your driving commute with a bike commute is a great idea as well!
Get Healthier Today
Now that you know about some of the sedentary lifestyle risks, hopefully, you'll be able to take a few steps to better your health. Literally! Getting a bit more exercise can lead to better health for the rest of your life.
If you're looking for more health and lifestyle advice, check out our blog for more tips!
