Scientists have discovered yet another reason to get up off your chair. According to new research, remaining sedentary for long periods of time can cause liver disease…so, if you’re reading this from your work station, now’s the time to stand up and move around.
The Disease and the study
Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease occurs when extra fat builds up in the liver, causing possible scarring, and in certain cases, liver failure. Published in the Journal of Hepatology, the study, which was conducted in North Korea, examined people around the age of 40. Of the focus group, approximately 35,000 out of the 140,000 people (roughly 9%) who sat for 10 hours or more during the day eventually developed liver disease. Aside from the sedentary issue, the study participants were considered to be healthy.
Sitting for to long is a no-no
Sitting too much is abnormal, as human ancestors and their bodies were adapted to constantly being on the move. Moreover, it’s not only liver disease that is of concern. Studies have already proven that obesity, diabetes, and anxiety are also linked to a sedentary lifestyle. While their aren’t many drugs that are FDA approved to fight liver disease, there are other viable options, exercise being a main preventative measure.
Researchers suggest that 150 hours of moderate exercise a week should provide a good balance to people who have no option but to sit down due to their jobs. Walking at least 10,000 steps everyday is recommended. Although this may sound like a lot, pacing around during work hours should easily bring you to the halfway mark. Then, a short walk around a store after work could knock out the remaining 5,000 steps. Another alternative, if exercise is too time consuming, is to use the Swiss ball, which can substitute as an office seat to keep your core working through out the day.
Stop sitting, get up and exercise! Your health and body will thank you for it. The R10 RWATCH CAN ALSO HELP YOU STAY FIT:
