Breaking the Sitting Habit: How Simple Changes Can Improve Health and Prevent Disease

The research has shown that prolonged sitting can increase the risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. Dori Rosenberg, PhD, MPH, a senior investigator at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, emphasizes the importance of standing and moving more throughout the day to improve health, regardless of age or ability.

Rosenberg’s research team conducted a clinical trial involving older adults and found that reducing daily sitting time by about 30 minutes resulted in better blood pressure measurements. This could lower health risks. To help people decrease their sitting time, Rosenberg offers tips such as standing during activities that are typically done sitting, setting up a standing desk, and incorporating standing into daily habits like talking on the phone or watching TV.

To reduce overall sitting time and improve health, it is recommended to change TV habits by standing or stretching while watching TV. Additionally, small bits of standing and walking throughout the day can make a big difference in overall health. Taking short walks after meals or parking farther away when running errands are all great ways to incorporate more movement into daily routines. By making these simple changes to daily routines, individuals can positively impact their overall health and well-being.