Many perceive long hours of sitting, such as watching movies or browsing the internet, as harmless. However, this habit can adversely affect health. Individuals who sit for more than 10 hours daily face a higher risk of heart disease, including stroke, compared to those who are regularly active.

One primary reason prolonged sitting poses a stroke risk is its detrimental effect on blood circulation. When sitting for hours, blood flow significantly decreases, especially in the legs. Stagnant circulation increases the risk of blood clot formation, which can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Over time, weakened blood circulation also contributes to varicose veins, edema, and reduced oxygen supply to vital tissues.

A sedentary lifestyle is strongly linked to high blood pressure, a primary factor in heart attacks and strokes. Without physical activity, arteries stiffen, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood. Simple actions like standing up and walking for a few minutes each hour can lower blood pressure and improve vascular health.

Prolonged sitting reduces daily calorie expenditure, often leading to gradual weight gain. Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases strain on the cardiovascular system. Additionally, inactivity alters the balance between good and bad cholesterol, raising the risk of plaque buildup in arteries. This arterial narrowing, known as atherosclerosis, can easily lead to stroke.

When muscles are inactive, they become less sensitive to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. This leads to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, combined with high blood pressure or obesity, further increases stroke risk.

Reducing sitting time does not mean entirely avoiding rest. You should intersperse long periods of inactivity with regular, gentle movements. Some ways to increase activity include: standing up and stretching after 30-60 minutes of sitting, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking after lunch, or parking further away to walk a short distance.

Besides prolonged sitting, other daily habits also increase stroke risk. Sleep plays a vital role in brain and vascular health. Individuals who sleep fewer than 6 hours daily have a higher stroke risk. High salt intake, leading to excess sodium, is strongly linked to increased blood pressure, a common stroke factor.

Le Nguyen (According to WebMD, Times of India)