Harmful Effects of a Sedentary Lifestyle

How Inactivity Can Impact Your Health

Although getting a moment to relax can help you to destress and unwind every now and again, spending a majority of your time in inactivity can have a negative impact on your body and your health. In fact, leading a sedentary lifestyle filled with long periods of laying down or sitting can put you at an increased risk for developing certain health conditions. Here’s what you should know.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. While there are many types of heart disease, coronary artery disease is the most common and is characterized by the narrowing of the coronary arteries. These arteries are responsible for transporting blood to the heart itself; when your heart isn’t getting an adequate amount of blood, it can cause you to have a heart attack.

Fortunately, you can lower your risk of developing heart disease as well as your risk for having a heart attack by leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. You can do this by getting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.

Type 2 Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that is characterized by abnormally high blood glucose levels. With type 2 diabetes, your body has issues with producing or using insulin—which is the hormone responsible for transporting sugar to your body’s cells. When insulin isn’t produced or used properly, too much glucose stays in your blood and can lead to further health complications.

People who are overweight, obese, or are inactive have an increased risk of developing this type of diabetes. You can effectively prevent delay and even prevent the development of diabetes by making positive lifestyle changes and leading an active lifestyle.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, meaning porous bone, is a disease that develops over time that affects the density and resilience of your bones. When you have this condition, your bones are fragile and you’re more prone to experiencing fractures that also take longer to heal than they would with someone who doesn’t have this condition.

You can effectively maintain the density of your bones by leading an active lifestyle that incorporates strength-training. Not only does this prevent bone-loss, it also helps to strengthen the muscles that support and protect your bones, leaving you less likely to fall and break a bone in the first place.

Primary and Specialty Care in Henry County

At Henry County Hospital, we have been providing compassionate healthcare since 1919. When it comes to primary and specialty care, each patient can expect individualized care that meets their needs. From education to emotional support, we focus on your individual health and wellness.