Most of us have jobs that require us to sit all day. It’s not because we have to, it’s because our desks are equipped with tables and chairs that are designed for us to sit.
Sitting is not a very healthy state for our bodies to be resting in for an extended period of time. We don’t burn a lot of calories and studies have shown that sitting all day can lead to obesity. But what can we do if our jobs need us to sit at our desks all day?
Well, you can get a standing desk. Yes, standing desks actually exist and they are becoming a popular piece of equipment in the modern workplace. A standing desk allows you to stand up and do your work with ease and comes with adjustable height settings that let you take sitting breaks in between.
Standing during the day will benefit you and your body in the long run. Although you might not feel the effects right now, leading a sedentary lifestyle where you sit for a good part of your day can lead to developing a number of health problems.
4 Health Benefits of Standing Desks
A standing desk at work will be a healthy way to spend your days at work and avoid falling into a sedentary trap. Here are 4 health benefits you will gain from using a standing desk.
1. Lowers Risk of Obesity and Weight Gain
We all know the importance of staying active and that we should avoid a sedentary lifestyle. The few hours spent standing instead of sitting might seem insignificant, however, it will benefit you in the long run.
The more we move around during the day, the more calories we burn. A 2013 study showed that people who stand at work burn, on average, 50 more calories per hour than people who resort to sitting all day.
Make it a habit to move around once in a while. Whether it’s to remind your colleague about an upcoming meeting or walking to the kitchen to get some water. All these movements will make a big difference in your metabolism over sitting down the whole time.
2. Lowers Risk of Developing Cancer
Research indicates that sitting down for long periods of time can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancers.
Scientists are still looking to find the underlying cause, however, they have found that people who have to sit at work all day have higher levels of C-reactive proteins that could be the reason for developing cancer.
3. Lowers Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
We need a strong heart to protect us from heart attacks, strokes, and the development of other diseases.
In London, British researchers conducted a study on the drivers who sat all day and the conductors who had to stand. They found that the conductors experienced fewer heart attacks and other heart problems compared to the bus drivers.
Other studies show that sitting for more than two hours per day increases the risk of cardiovascular problems by 125%.
4. Improves Mood and Energy Levels
Have you ever faced an afternoon slump and wanted to go back to bed after a yummy lunch? Don’t let that feeling take over you anymore. Standing desks can help boost your energy levels and help you be more productive during the day.
Individuals who participated in a week-long study using standing desks reported to have lower levels of stress and fatigue, while 87% of participants experienced high levels of energy during the day.
It’s no secret that staying active reduces anxiety and keeps your spirits lifted, therefore, it might be time to invest in a standing desk to reduce your sitting habits.
Little Changes Go a Long Way
There’s no harm in trying something new. The beauty of standing desks is that there are plenty of models that come with different height options for you to choose from.
It is recommended to switch between standing and sitting during the day to avoid putting stress on certain parts of your body.
Meanwhile, all the standing and sitting you do will increase the number of movements you make and keep you feeling more active throughout the day.
Consult your doctor or healthcare professional for more advice on the benefits of standing and choose a lifestyle that benefits your overall health.
The content of this Website is for is for informational purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and does not constitute professional advice. The information on this Website should not be considered as complete and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment. You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program and/or any of the beauty treatments.
References:
Stromberg, J. (2014, March 26). Five Health Benefits of Standing Desks. Retrieved April 11, 2018, from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/five-health-benefits-standing-desks-180950259/
7 Benefits of a Standing Desk. (n.d.). Retrieved April 11, 2018, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-benefits-of-a-standing-desk
