You can lose weight simply by standing: Study
What if you could lose weight simply by standing? As is common knowledge, prolonged sitting reduces calorie-burn, and leads to obesity. Further, it puts you at risk of major health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, or even premature death. The solution? A new study suggests using standing desks for work or while studying can help shed unwanted fat. Here's how.
By standing, one can lose 0.15 more calories/minute, reveals study
A study of over a thousand participants, headed by Dr. Francisco Lopez-Jimenez of Preventive Cardiology at the Mayo Clinic reveals that by standing, one can lose about 0.15 more calories per minute, as compared to same amount of sitting. This implies that a person weighing 65 kilos can lose as many as 54 calories, if he ditches sitting and stands for 6 hours everyday.
Other than weight-loss, standing can also improve heart health
Sitting for long hours can significantly increase our risk of developing dreadful heart diseases. A study found out that bus conductors who stand almost entire day are at half the risk of heart disease as compared to their colleagues sitting on the driver's seat. Thus, for better heart health and prevention of heart problems, prefer standing over sitting as much as possible.
Standing desks can work wonders for back pain patients
The standing desk can work as a great alternative for patients of back pain, as prolonged sitting is known to worsen the condition. Studies, in support of standing desk usage, found out that participants reported a 32% improvement in lower back pain after several weeks of using a standing desk. Another study showed that sit-stand desks can considerably reduce upper-back and neck pains.
Use of standing desks promotes greater energy levels, improves mood
Many studies have shown that sedentary lifestyles induce stress, anxiety, and depression. On the other hand, it has lately been established that standing desks can improve overall mental well-being and mood. Studies have shown that participants who used standing desks experienced reduced levels of stress and fatigue. Additionally, majority of them reported higher levels of energy as well.
By standing more, you will live longer
With sedentary lifestyles and prolonged sitting increasing the risk of Type-2 diabetes and heart disease, sitting, in the long term, may lead to premature death. In fact, a review of 18 studies shows that those who sit the most are at 49% increased risk of dying early than those who sit less. However, by switching from prolonged sitting to standing, longevity can be improved.
The bottom line
Sedentary lifestyle is downright unhealthy. Prolonged sitting leads to obesity and major health issues. Studies suggest that switching to a standing desk at work or when studying can not only help you shed unwanted kilos but also improve mood, back pain condition, heart-health, and longevity.
