Don’t Just Sit There!

By Stacy SimonEvidence is growing that sitting time, no matter how much exercise you get when you aren’t sitting, increases the likelihood of developing cancer, especially for women.In an American Cancer Society study, women who spent 6 hours or more a day sitting outside of work had a 10% greater risk for invasive breast cancer compared with women who sat less than 3 hours a day, and an increased risk for other cancer types as well.Previous studies have found links between sitting time and dying younger for both men and women. Alpa Patel, PhD, co-author of the study and also American Cancer Society strategic director, Cancer Prevention Study-3, says sitting is linked to dying younger even for people who get a lot of physical activity.The American Cancer Society recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week (or a combination of these), preferably spread throughout the week, and limit time spent sitting when possible.At home, people can make small changes that reduce their sitting time such as standing up while folding laundry and watching TV, according to Patel. At work, she recommends:Parking farther away from where you’re going, so you walk moreStanding during conference callsMaking short meetings “standing” meetings, if you’re the organizerTaking a 1-2 minute standing or walking break every hourPatel says, “For optimal health and cancer prevention, meet physical ac...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Diet/Exercise/Weight Source Type: news