Spending too much time sitting without moving can be harmful to your health in more ways than one.
Many people love binge-watching TV shows, but doing so for long hours might be more dangerous than we realize.
A recent study shows that sitting for more than four hours without standing up increases the risk of thrombosis, according to Ziare.
Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot, usually in the legs. The study found that watching TV for four hours or more a day is linked to a 35% higher risk of blood clots.
The research was published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.
When you sit for a long time, blood flow slows down. This lack of movement can lead to deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is when a blood clot forms in the deep veins.
If the clot travels to the lungs, it can block blood flow and cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be life-threatening.
It may not seem obvious, but watching TV for hours is a form of immobilization. The longer you stay still, the higher your risk of developing thrombosis.
Experts recommend taking breaks every 30 minutes. Stand up, stretch your legs, and move around to improve circulation. This is a simple step that can help reduce the risk.
Even if you’re comfortable on the couch, it’s important to remember the dangers of staying still for too long.
Taking regular breaks not only helps reduce your risk of blood clots but also improves your overall health.
Whether you’re watching your favorite series or enjoying a movie, don’t forget to stand up and stretch.
If you’re spending a lot of time in front of the TV, make it a habit to get up and move every half hour. Your body will thank you for it.
