Sitting for long periods of time is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. Know which organ is most affected?

News Topical, Digital Desk : In today's fast-paced lives, we consider ourselves safe because we don't smoke or consume any intoxicants. But did you know that even without smoking, you can be vulnerable to many serious illnesses? The biggest reason for this is prolonged sitting. Working for hours on end in the office, sitting while traveling, and spending time watching TV or watching mobile phones at home have all become part of our daily routine.

At first glance, it seems perfectly normal, but medical research shows that sitting for long periods of time can be just as harmful to the body as smoking cigarettes. That's why health experts are calling it the new smoking. This habit gradually weakens the body from within and gives rise to many serious diseases. 

Why is the problem of sitting lifestyle increasing?

Technology has made our lives easier, but it's also made us lazier. Today, most people spend 8 to 10 hours working on computers or laptops, scrolling through their phones, and sitting in one place for hours watching TV. When the body is deprived of movement for long periods of time, it directly impacts our heart, brain, muscles, and digestive system. 

Sitting for long periods of time causes the most damage to these body parts?

1. Effects on the heart and blood cells - Sitting for long periods of time slows blood flow. This can increase blood pressure, bad cholesterol (LDL), and the risk of heart attack and stroke. According to research, those who sit for more than 8 hours a day have a significantly increased risk of death from heart disease. 

2. Diabetes and insulin resistance - When the body is not active, the muscles are unable to use sugar properly, due to which insulin does not work properly, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases, this problem can also occur in thin people. 

3. Obesity and slow metabolism - Sedentary activities burn very few calories. This leads to rapid weight gain, fat accumulation around the stomach and waist, and a sluggish metabolism. 

4. Back, neck and shoulder pain – Working in the wrong posture puts pressure on the spine, causes stiffness in the neck and shoulders, and can lead to long-term back pain. 

5. Effect on brain and mental health - Less physical activity reduces oxygen supply to the brain, can increase stress, anxiety and depression, and can cause difficulty concentrating. 

6. Weakens the digestive system - Sitting down immediately after eating slows down digestion, leading to gas, constipation, and acidity. 

Is sitting really as dangerous as smoking cigarettes?

According to doctors, sitting and smoking cause harm in different ways, but both habits gradually lead to illness. Some studies suggest that sitting for 8 hours at a stretch can be as harmful as smoking 10–15 cigarettes a week. Sitting for long periods of time increases the risk of premature death. 

How to avoid sitting for long periods of time?

1. Get up every 30 minutes, walk or stretch for 2–3 minutes between tasks. 

2. Make a habit of working while standing and if possible, use a standing desk. 

3. Keep moving during phone calls, do not sit on a chair while talking on the phone. 

4. Exercise daily, brisk walking, yoga or cycling is very beneficial. 

5. Sit properly, with a straight back, relaxed shoulders, and the screen at eye level. 
 
6. Stay active at home, getting up and walking around or doing light work between TV breaks. 

Read More: Sitting for long periods of time is more dangerous than smoking cigarettes. Know which organ is most affected?