Why Sitting at a Desk All Day Is Killing You

Up to 86% of Americans sit all day at work, and it’s not a good thing. Sitting for extended periods of time can wreak havoc on your body, specifically your neck, back and heart. You might be given points from your boss when you don’t leave your desk, but it’s not good for your physical and mental wellbeing. There are some things you can do to relieve back and neck pain or other issues caused by being sedentary. Remedies include physical exercise, even some that you can do at your desk. Vitamins, supplements, and meditation may also help.

Cardiovascular

Heart and cardio damage caused by an inactive lifestyle is one of the biggest causes of premature death in recent years. It is important to get your heart rate up every day to help the blood flow through your veins, through your heart and through your other organs. When the blood ceases to flow, it can clog your veins, thereby contributing to strokes, aneurysms as well as many types of heart and lung disease.

Back and Neck

There are some things you can do to help your back, but there are limits. You can fight both neck and back pain by taking certain vitamins and supplements. Vitamin D promotes bone and joint health. Regular consumption of foods high in magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids or taking supplements that contain these substances has been successful in keeping neck and back pain at bay or at least helping limit the pain to a manageable level.

You can also alleviate back and neck pain through regular stretching – there are lots of YouTube videos that can teach you about the right way to do it. However, if pain persists, you may need the help of a massage therapist or chiropractor.

Other Diseases and Disorders Caused by Being Stationary

In addition to pain in your neck and back, there are other risks from inactivity. In fact, it’s the leading cause of disease and disability. Too much time being glued to your TV or computer can contribute to diseases that include diabetes, memory problems, obesity, cancer, and depression. Although exercising on a regular basis and eating a healthy diet does not guarantee perfect health, it can literally mean the difference between life and death. Issues that are less severe but potentially serious nonetheless include losing muscle strength, constipation, poor circulation and edema.

Not everyone is ready to get out and run a couple of miles or shoot hoops whenever they have some down time. For some people it takes a lot to even get out and walk around the block. However, if you can visualize your life down the road a bit, you will likely see a healthier happier you if you change some of your habits to a more active lifestyle.