In order to lead a long and healthy life, it’s important to look after yourself. You already know good habits can keep you moving forward in a positive way, but what about the ones you need to eradicate?
Surprisingly, a seemingly harmless pastime could be shaving years off your life.
Harvard Medical School cited research that revealed that sitting down for long stretches of time increases a person’s odds of an early grave.
Published n the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the researchers determined the relationship a sedentary lifestyle and diseases that shorten your life.
In particulate, the research team observed data from those who suffered form coronary heart disease, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
The study population included 92,234 – aged 50 to 79 years – who completed a sedentary questionnaire.
Then a 12-year follow-up was conducted, where the researchers analysed the data.
To do this, they compared the health of those who reported the most sedentary lifestyle to those who reported the least sedentary lifestyle.
The results found that those who were the most sedentary had an increase in all-cause mortality.
This means that the people who sat down for longer periods of time had an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease and cancer.
Periods of inactivity included when people sat down at work, while driving, and lying down on the couch.
The study co-author, Dr JoAnn Manson, said: “Even if you are doing the recommended amount of moderate to vigorous exercise, you will still have a higher risk of mortality if you’re spending too many hours sitting.”
Such a shocking remark could make you want to jump out of your seat – what can you do to add years onto your life?
Aside from moving your body at least 30 minutes per day, Harvard Medical School have a couple of tips.
They recommended standing while working from a laptop; if this applies to you, kitchen units may be sufficient.
Another method is to take a walk and stretch every 60 minutes you spend sitting down.
Dr Manson added: “Once you’re sitting for more than six to eight hours a day, that’s not likely to be good for you.”
It would seem that the more active one is, the better your health is likely to be.
The best way to incorporate more movement into your everyday life is to follow these steps recommended by the NHS.
Taking a phonemail? Instead of sitting down, why don’t you walk around your home while you natter away?
Another tip is to enjoy a daily walk with a friend or loved one, or join a walking group for extra motivation.
If you’re green fingered, and the weather permits, getting out to tend to the plants is a great way to get active and connect with nature.
Would you enjoy a more disciplined approach to exercise? Have you considered tai chi, pilates or yoga?
Performing group exercises could be stimulating, fun and a great way to gain longevity.
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