Many people spend long hours sitting at work, during travel, and at home, which can lead to health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
This problem has become more common with more people working from home since the Covid-19 pandemic, where they might sit for hours without moving much.
In 1953, a researcher named Jeremy Morris discovered that London bus drivers had a higher risk of heart disease compared to bus conductors, who were on their feet and climbing stairs. Morris’s study highlighted the link between sitting too long and health risks.
Even though bus conductors are no longer a common job, this research is still relevant today.
Sitting for extended periods can lower your blood flow and increase the risk of heart problems. When you sit, especially for over 2-3 hours without moving, it can lead to poor circulation and higher blood pressure.
Studies have shown that prolonged sitting can cause the blood to pool in your legs and increase your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Researchers suggest that taking breaks from sitting, like standing up or walking around, can help counteract some of these health risks. Some solutions include using adjustable desks, standing during meetings, and using fitness trackers to remind you to move.
Experts say that modern society has encouraged more sedentary behavior because of increased efficiency in daily tasks.
To improve health, it’s important to regularly break up sitting time with movement, even small actions like stretching or walking to make a cup of tea can make a difference.
For more information on this topic, you can refer to the BBC article that discusses these issues in detail.
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20240722-why-you-are-probably-sitting-down-for-too-long