Prolonged sitting may shorten our lives, say experts

Health Notes
Prolonged sitting may shorten our lives, say experts

New York: Emerging studies have found that prolonged sitting increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, slows metabolism and even shortens our lives. A University of Sydney study has found that adults who sat 11 or more hours a day had a 40 per cent increased risk of dying in the next three years compared with those who sat for fewer than four hours a day, the New York Daily News reported. “That morning walk or trip to the gym is still necessary, but it’s also important to avoid prolonged sitting,” the paper quoted study author Dr Hidde van der Ploeg of the University of Sydney’s School of Public Health as saying in a statement. According to him, their results suggest the time people spend sitting at home, work and in traffic should be reduced by standing or walking more. For adults, van der Ploeg suggests a moderate intensity activity such as walking for at least 30 minutes in the morning. A similar report was earlier published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine, which highlighted a link between prolonged sitting and health. — ANI