Over 1 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes each year. It is the 7th leading cause of deaths. These facts are not to scare you, but to give you a perspective on the impact diabetes has on you and those around you. Diabetes has been linked to our sedentary lifestyle.
New studies have found with an increase in technology and a more sedentary lifestyle, there are increased numbers of diabetes cases. For every one extra hour of sitting at a computer or watching TV, is associated with a 22% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Researchers assessed sedentary behavior with glucose levels and metabolic syndrome to determine glucose tolerance and glucose metabolism. This study was the largest of its kind and lead to a conclusion that sedentary lifestyles play a significant role in the development and prevention of type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, it is important to not only evaluate nutrition, but physical activity when providing diabetes support and prevention.
Sedentary lifestyles are difficult to avoid given the shift away from manufacturing jobs towards desk jobs and remote working. Hectic schedules and convenience have transformed how we live our lives. But it is important for your health to get up and get moving to not only help your focus and fatigue, but to decrease your chances of diabetes.
Here are some ways to interrupt your sedentary lifestyle:
- Get Up: This sounds easier than it is. Schedule yourself breaks throughout the day to ensure you are getting up and walking. Most importantly, invest in a sit-stand desk. If you are tethered to the desk you will at least be able to stand while you are there.
- Get creative: Take calls while walking or standing to ensure you are not sitting down. Have meetings outside. Leave your lunch in the car, so you have to walk to it for your breaks. Have fun, but make it useful and push yourself out of your sedentary way!
- Technology Controls: This is like the parental controls you have for your kids, but it is for you! If you haven’t been active enough in the day, stand with your tablet or computer on your personal time.
Type 2 diabetes impacts the longevity and fulfillment of your life. It is important to not only watch your nutrition, but your movement when preventing or treating this disease. Small changes to your routine could mean big impacts on your health!
About the Author
Scott Keppel is the owner of Scott’s Training Systems, a world-class coaching facility in Chandler, Arizona. He is a nationally certified trainer through NASM and ISSA. His mission is to empower women of all ages and fitness levels. For more information head to scottstrainingsystems.com or check him out on Instagram at @scott.keppel.
