Study Shows Sitting Can Reduce Life Expectancy

A new study shows that sitting for long periods of time can reduce life expectancy, and this even affects individuals who get physical exercise on a daily basis. “Sedentary behavior is something we need to take note of beyond telling people to get 30 minutes of activity a day,” says lead researcher of the study, Peter Katzmarzyk, to the Wall Street Journal. “We have people who can meet that guideline. However, if you’re sedentary or sitting the other 20 hours a day, you’re still going to be at risk for that.” The results of the study indicate that the U.S. population would live 2 years longer if adults reduced their sitting time to less than 3 hours a day. To do this, Katzmarzyk suggest that workers try to stand as much as possible. “Typically when you’re on the telephone you can stand with speaker phone,” he says. “Instead of emailing someone in the office, just get up and go talk to them.” Just a few simple steps can lead to longevity. To read the full study, click here.