Scientists from Vanderbilt University Medical Center in the United States have discovered that intense daily physical activity does not always compensate for the damage caused by prolonged sitting.
Nature Communications notes that scientists have proven that "a sedentary lifestyle is itself an independent risk factor that cannot be fully offset by exercise or walking."
The researchers reached this conclusion after studying and analyzing data from 15 volunteers who wore fitness trackers for an average of 3.7 years. This study covered nearly 13 million follow-up days, during which participants walked an average of 7,400 steps per day but spent approximately 12 hours sitting each day.
Analysis of the results showed a link between prolonged sitting and an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, depression, and cardiovascular disease. However, additional physical activity reduced these risks in several cases; for example, for high blood pressure and fatty liver disease, the positive effect stabilized at around 8,000 steps per day.
As for coronary heart disease and heart failure, vigorous physical activity did not completely reduce the risk if a person continued to sit for extended periods. Furthermore, researchers noted that excessive activity is not always beneficial; the risk of coronary heart disease decreased at around 12,000 steps per day, but the risk increased again as activity levels rose.
Researchers emphasize that the number of steps taken is not the only important factor for health; reducing sedentary time is also crucial. According to them, taking regular breaks during office work is just as important as daily physical activity.
