The Effects of Sedentary Behavior on Your Overall Health
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How Inactivity Impacts Your Health
Whether you like to spend your free time lounging on the couch or catching up on some much-needed rest, there are times where you can have too much relaxation in your life. In fact, leading a generally sedentary or inactive lifestyle can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health, leaving you at an increased risk of experiencing health complications.
Read on to learn more about how your leisurely habits can have a negative impact on your health in the long run.
Increased Health Risks
Heart Disease
According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than 640,000 lives each year. Unfortunately, low physical activity levels have been shown to be the biggest risk factor for developing heart disease. Inactivity can also lead to the following issues that also contribute to the risk of developing heart disease:
- Obesity
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that impacts the way your body turns food into fuel. With Type 2 diabetes, your body isn’t able to properly use insulin to regulate your blood sugar levels. The CDC states that about 90-95% of people living with diabetes have type 2, which is completely preventable. Physical inactivity is one of the leading risk factors for developing this chronic health condition.
Cancer
Observational studies have shown that evidence that suggests that higher physical activity levels can help to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers. When you lead a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, you effectively lower your risk for the following types of cancer:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Colon cancer
- Endometrial cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Renal (kidney) cancer
- Gastric (stomach) cancer
Slowed Metabolism
Your metabolism refers to the way that your body uses energy and burns calories; this is a continuous process that happens at all times of the day and night while your body’s systems are running. While the efficiency of your metabolism is mostly dependent on genetic factors, leading a relatively inactive lifestyle can leave it on the slower side—burning fewer calories and storing more fat within the body.
Mental Health Problems
When it comes to thinking of various areas of your health, mental health is often left off the list. Just like your physical health, your mental and emotional wellbeing can also suffer as a result of spending too much time lounging around. In fact, it can increase your feelings of anxiety and depression.
Primary Care in Titusville
When it comes to supporting your health, it is important to find a family care doctor you can trust. The family doctors at Parrish Medical Group Family Medicine treat patients throughout all stages of your life, providing you with the insight, resources, and preventative care you need to live happily and healthily.
Whether you’re in need of a regular check-up or you have a health concern, contact Parrish Medical Group Family Medicine at 321-268-6111 to schedule your next visit.
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