Health Risks of Sitting Too Long at Work

CLEVELAND – A recent study, involving nearly 500,000 people, found that sitting for too long at work can increase your risk for heart disease and even death.

So, why is that exactly?

We asked Tamanna Singh, MD, sports cardiologist with Cleveland Clinic.

She was not involved with the study.

“If we don’t stay on top of movement, physical activity, during the course of the day, on a very consistent basis, we lose the empowerment that we have to keep our blood pressure well controlled, lower our cholesterol, manage our blood sugar and prevent things like diabetes, and of course manage our weight,” said Dr. Singh.

The study concluded that to help offset those risks, people who sit for long periods should be active for at least 15 to 30 minutes a day.

And it doesn’t have to be anything too intense.

Dr. Singh said walking is an easy option that can be done anywhere.

For example, you could go on a walk during your lunch break or take some laps around the office.

You could also invite some coworkers to take part.

Another tip, block out time on your calendar, so you’re always reminded.

“This is basically as simple as just getting up and walking, something that most of us do every day, in little snippets throughout the day,” said Dr. Singh. “So, I think if you just schedule that little bit of time into your day, you’re really going to be doing a lot for yourself and for your body and your cardiovascular health.”

Dr. Singh notes it’s never too late to get started.

However, if you haven’t exercised in a while, make sure you ease into it.