A recent observational study conducted by the School of Public Health at the University of Hong Kong has found a direct connection between the time spent watching television and the risk of heart attacks. It emphasizes that individuals should limit their TV watching to no more than one hour each day to significantly decrease the likelihood of heart-related issues.
One patient who recently underwent a procedure for blocked arteries showcased how lifestyle adjustments can yield positive results. He attributed his improved health metrics not just to regular exercise, but also to breaking the habit of long sedentary hours that often comes with a desk job. By actively taking walking and stretching breaks, as well as engaging in household activities instead of lounging on the sofa, he noticed remarkable changes in his health.
According to the findings published in the American Heart Association journal, the research highlights that prolonged sitting, particularly while watching television, correlates with an increased risk of conditions like heart attacks and strokes, especially in those with a predisposition to Type 2 diabetes.
A Modifiable Risk Factor
With a significant portion of the population at risk of diabetes, the need to manage sedentary behavior is more critical than ever. The study indicates that simply reducing television time can help combat the issue of excessive sitting.
“Watching TV, which accounts for more than half of daily sedentary behaviour, is consistently associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis,” the authors noted.
Understanding the Impact of Sedentary Behavior
Prolonged periods of sitting can hinder circulation, contributing to the accumulation of fatty deposits in arteries. This lifestyle, over time, can precipitate conditions such as metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and ultimately, heart disease. All of these factors underscore the importance of maintaining mobility throughout the day.
Experts recommend incorporating brief periods of activity into daily routines as a way to mitigate the harmful effects of inactivity.
(Dr Shetty is lead cardiologist and medical director at Sparsh Hospitals in Bengaluru.)
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