Desk derrière
Are you sitting down? You might want to stand up, as new adds to the bank of data that shows prolonged sitting can be hazardous to our health. Indeed, the 11-year international study of 100,000 people found those who sat for six-to-eight hours a day had a 12-13 per cent increased risk of heart disease, while those who sat for more than eight hours daily had a 20 per cent added risk. So, how can you offset the damage? If you must sit, the researchers recommend that you spend your non-sitting time getting in more exercise, as those who sat the most but were also the most active substantially reduced their risk. Perhaps it’s time to swap lunch at your desk for a brisk 30-minute walk.
