Dr. Barbara O’Neill, a well-known health educator, often emphasizes the importance of lifestyle habits in maintaining good health. According to her, there’s one dangerous habit that many people engage in daily without realizing its harmful effects: sitting for long periods without movement.
Why Prolonged Sitting is Dangerous
Prolonged sitting, whether at a desk, in front of the TV, or during long commutes, can silently damage your health in ways you might not expect. Dr. O’Neill explains that sitting for hours each day negatively affects circulation, metabolism, and posture, leading to a range of health issues.
Here’s how this habit affects you:
1. Increases Risk of Heart Disease
Sitting for long periods slows circulation and can lead to poor blood flow, which increases the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
2. Contributes to Weight Gain
When you’re sedentary for long hours, your metabolism slows, making it easier to gain weight and harder to burn fat. This can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Weakens Muscles and Joints
Extended sitting weakens core muscles and places stress on your lower back and hips, leading to muscle imbalances and joint pain. Poor posture from sitting also strains the spine.
