In this technology-driven era, sitting has become the go-to position for many of us. You know, we often find ourselves spending an average of 10 hours a day in front of a computer, hardly moving at all. It's kind of alarming how little physical activity we actually do, right? Research indicates that this sedentary lifestyle can significantly impact our health, contributing to various metabolic and musculoskeletal disorders, particularly among specific populations such as those with rheumatic diseases, where obesity exacerbates complications following surgeries and increases overall morbidity [1].
This sedentary lifestyle can really take a toll on your body. Here are some of the side effects of sitting for long periods.
1. Slower Metabolism
Sitting all day reduces the movement of your muscles, slowing down your metabolism. This decrease in physical activity can lead to increased fat accumulation and a less effective insulin response, heightening the risk of metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity [3].
2. Compromised Posture
Your sitting position can alter the alignment of your pelvis, putting pressure on your lumbar discs. This weight transfer pushes your head forward and causes your shoulders to curve, which can change your natural skeletal structure, potentially leading to chronic pain and musculoskeletal disorders [2].
3. Obesity
As your energy expenditure decreases and metabolism slows, your body starts to accumulate calories and convert them into fat. Over time, this can lead to significant weight gain and obesity, which is often linked to various health issues including cardiovascular diseases and increased risk of diabetes [4].
4. Diabetes
Being in a constant resting state can reduce your blood's sensitivity to insulin. This may lead to elevated blood sugar levels, making you more susceptible to diabetes. Studies indicate that the combined effects of obesity and sedentary behavior significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes [2].
5. Rheumatic Disorders
Your prolonged sitting can exert severe pressure on your joints. Conditions like osteoporosis and other rheumatic disorders can arise from this constant pressure. Research has shown that obesity not only increases the risk of developing these conditions but also complicates management due to the increased surgical risks associated with obesity in patients with rheumatic diseases [1].
If you're experiencing any of these issues, it's a good idea to consult a professional. You might want to consider an online doctor consultation to get personalized advice.
References:
- Mohsen Soori, Seyed Hadi Mirhashemi, Fariborz Rashnoo, Gholamhosein Faghih, Fatemeh Ebrahimi, Amir Zamani, Azadeh Hakakzadeh. Surgical complications of bariatric surgery among patients with rheumatic diseases.. PubMed. 2024.
- Salmaan Ansari, Shazina Saeed. The combined role of diabetes and obesity in susceptibility to musculoskeletal disorders and its subtypes in older men and women in India.. PubMed. 2023.
- Jens Aberle, Anne Lautenbach, Svenja Meyhöfer, Sebastian M Meyhöfer, Markus Menzen, Lars Selig, Knut Mai, Matthias Blüher. Obesity and Diabetes.. PubMed. 2024.
- Mohanraj Rajesh, Ying Xin, Jamie L Young, Lu Cai. Editorial: Cardiovascular Diseases Related to Diabetes and Obesity.. PubMed. 2022.
- Shivananda B Nayak, Valendrea Rahming, Yudestri Raghunanan, Chandani Raghoonath, Adriel Rahman, Dillon Rajh, Sherry Rambadan, Nandini Ramdass. Prevalence of Diabetes, Obesity and Dyslipidaemia in Persons within High and Low Income Groups Living in North and South Trinidad.. PubMed. 2016.