- Increased Risk of Heart Disease: Sitting for extended periods doubles the likelihood of developing heart disease compared to standing.
- Shortened Lifespan: Prolonged sitting is associated with a higher risk of premature death, regardless of regular exercise habits.
- Higher Risk of Dementia: Excessive sitting is linked to an increased risk of dementia, as well as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
- Difficulty Countering Exercise: Even regular exercise cannot fully counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting, so it is important to keep moving throughout the day.
- Increased Risk of Diabetes: Sitting for long periods raises the risk of diabetes, potentially due to changes in the body’s insulin response.
- Risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Sitting still for extended periods can lead to the formation of blood clots in the legs, which can be serious if they travel to the lungs.
- Weight Gain: Excessive sitting, particularly while engaging in sedentary activities like watching TV or using screens, increases the likelihood of being overweight or obese.
- Heightened Anxiety: Spending long periods alone engaged in screen-based activities can disrupt sleep and contribute to anxiety, social withdrawal, and social anxiety.
- Back Problems: Sitting places significant stress on the back muscles, neck, and spine, leading to discomfort and potential back issues, particularly when combined with poor posture.
- Varicose Veins: Sitting for prolonged periods can cause blood to pool in the legs, increasing pressure in the veins and potentially resulting in varicose veins and spider veins.
- Risk of Osteoporosis and Reduced Mobility: Lack of physical activity, including extended sitting, can contribute to osteoporosis in older adults and impair their ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Increased Cancer Risk: Long periods of sitting are associated with a higher likelihood of developing colon, endometrial, lung, and breast cancer.
Incorporating more movement throughout the day to counteract the negative effects of sitting, such as taking regular breaks to stretch, walking, standing at a desk, or using a standing or treadmill desk.