7 Health Effects That Come with a Desk Job

As complex and sophisticated as the human body is, sitting too long increases the risk for several health issues. The fact is, the human system works better in a standing position. Moreover, studies show that if people spent more time standing and less time sitting, it would lower their cholesterol, weight, and blood sugar.

However, the percentage of American workers with desk jobs is at an all-time high, and it does not appear to change any time soon. However, the first step to change is to inform the public of seven health risks of having a desk job. Knowledge is key.

Heart and Mind

The heart's primary function is to pump enough blood to deliver enough oxygen and nutrients to vital body parts. When a body is active, the heart pumps faster to those essential organs, including the brain. If the body is mainly still or sitting, it slows down the metabolism and feels sluggish. Sitting all day or lacking physical activity can also increase the risk of heart disease and even strokes.

The blood that pumps from the heart to vital organs is also the fuel for the brain. Many studies have shown that physical activity such as walking is beneficial for the brain. The lack of it has the reverse effect. In addition, studies show that prolonged sitting increases the risk of dementia later in life. However, consistently walking has shown signs of decreasing the risk of dementia and even reversing it partially in some cases.

Vascular Issues

Sitting for too long can cause lower legs and feet to become tired, swollen, and itch. These symptoms may mean that the blood and fluid could be pulling to the feet and could be at risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot in your leg veins. Any blood clot in any part of the body can travel to the lungs and cause death. Therefore, it is best to get up periodically and walk around so the blood can flow correctly.

Spine and Lower Back Issues

Continual sitting at a desk can cause vast stress on the spinal structures, shoulders, joints, and hips, sometimes due to lousy posture. In addition, constant exposure causes postural misalignment, leading to reduced spine flexibility and pain in the lower back. So, even if physical activity is incorporated, it may not be enough to negate the effects of prolonged sitting.

Moreover, if someone is having continual pain in their neck, back, and buttocks, they may be experiencing a condition called herniated disc pain. Walking and physical activity will not reverse disc degeneration. Instead, a medical exam with a referral for pain treatment or even surgery is likely needed.

Weight Gain and Diabetes

Society is a long way from having to hunt for food and go to the well for water. Now, everything is in an arm's reach, and eating at the desk or mindless snacking while on the computer is very common. Unfortunately, mindless eating is directly linked to eating more significant portions and making bad food choices, ultimately leading to weight gain.

Furthermore, weight gain and wrong food choices are the leading cause of obesity and Type II diabetes. In addition, sitting all day impairs the body's ability to handle sugar. Therefore, it is imperative to avoid mindless eating, drink water throughout the day and take a break to walk.

Chronic Illness

Recently, research shows that if a person constantly sits and is stagnant for many hours out of their day, they are at higher risk for chronic diseases such as cancer. Sitting at work appears to be an independent contributor to cancer, just like smoking and eating red meats, according to Xavier Llor, MD, Ph.D. He suggested that there needs to be a culture change.

In Conclusion

There are many ways to combat most health risks of sitting at a desk for prolonged periods. Getting up periodically and moving is very important. Avoid mindless eating that leads to more significant food portions or snacks. Drink lots of water and implement walking as a routine. In addition, brisk walking pumps the heart that pumps into vital organs, reducing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, weight gain, and cancer. Movements matter, no matter how small.