Working in one place for a long time while sitting can be harmful for your health. Research by the University of Iowa says that sitting for hours and not exercising can increase the risk of 19 diseases in the body. This is as dangerous as smoking.

If you work sitting in one place for hours and do not do any kind of exercise, then it can be dangerous. It is as harmful to the body as smoking and increases the risk of many diseases. A recent research has revealed that people who sit for hours and do not do physical work are at risk of 19 diseases including diabetes, while those who do any physical activity for at least 150 minutes a week have a lower risk of 19 chronic diseases.

This information has come to light in the research of University of Iowa. This study was based on the data of more than 7,000 patients, who had given information about their level of physical activity. Those who used to work sitting for hours, smoking-like effects were seen in their body. These people were suffering from type-2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, high BP, obesity, joint pain, mental stress, depression, anxiety, insulin resistance, stiffness in joints, spinal problems, high cholesterol, fatty liver, kidney disease and weakness. Some of them had one or the other of these problems. Whereas those who used to exercise and did not work sitting in one place for hours had a very low risk of these diseases.

People should be told about the benefits of exercise

The research also suggested that doctors should tell people about the benefits of exercise. Regular light activities, such as walking or stretching for 5 minutes every hour, can be helpful in reducing the effects of a sedentary lifestyle. The research says that even if someone sits in one place for hours, they should avoid doing so. Taking breaks in between and walking and stretching is very important.

Exercise is as beneficial as medicine

The American College of Sports Medicine says that exercise is necessary to avoid diseases. They say that exercise is medicine. Even if you do a desk job, take a break of at least 5 minutes every hour and walk or do stretching. Do exercise for at least 150 minutes a week, such as brisk walking, cycling or you can also do yoga. Adopt the right posture while sitting in the office and use a standing desk if possible.