Whether you work in an office or work from home, researchers stated that sitting too much is not suitable for your health. Not only does sitting burn very few calories, which contributes to weight gain, but people who sit a lot every day have an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and early death. This is a problem for those of us who continuously sit all day to complete work. Fortunately, standing desks are becoming increasingly more and more popular and affordable. Now you may be asking, why should I consider using a standing desk? Surprisingly, there are various health benefits to using a standing desk in contrast to sitting down at a desk. Here are 5 reasons why a standing desk is a good idea:
Lowers Risk of Weight Gain
One of the 5 reasons why a standing desk is a good idea is that it lowers risk of weight gain. Research shows that standing helps reduce the risk of weight gain as it burns more calories than sitting down. While exercise is the most effective way to burn calories, merely choosing to stand instead of sitting can also be beneficial. Compared to an afternoon of sedentary work, an equal amount of time spent standing has been shown to burn over 170 additional calories. Per week, that is almost 1,000 calories you are burning by simply standing!
Reduces Back Pain
One of the most common complaints from office workers who sit all-day is back pain. Thankfully, research has shown that standing desks help improve one’s posture as well as reduce back pain. Instead of sitting down at your desk, standing helps take the pressure off your neck and lower back. Although, it is not enough to correct more severe problems, such as scoliosis or a bulging disc.
Improves Mood and Energy Levels
In addition to this, standing desks appear to have a positive influence on one’s mood and energy levels. Participants who use standing desks have reported less stress and fatigue than those who remained seated the entire workday. Additionally, 87% of those using standing desks reported increased vigor and energy throughout the day. Through broader research on sitting and mental health, it has been discovered that a sedentary work life increases the risk of depression and anxiety.
Lowers Blood Sugar
Another health benefit of utilizing a standing desk is that it helps lower blood sugar. According to a small study of 10 office workers who stand for 180 minutes after lunch reduced the blood sugar spike by 43% compared to sitting for the same amount of time. Both groups had taken the same number of steps, indicating that the smaller spike was due to standing rather than additional physical movements around the office.
Boosts Productivity
While standing at your desk may be strange and take some time to get used to, it has been proven that standing desks help boost productivity. Although many are concerned that it may hinder daily tasks, standing desks appear to have no significant impact on typical work tasks. In fact, standing stimulates circulation, which sends more oxygen and nutrients to your brain. On the other hand, sitting inhibits circulation and starts negatively impacting your blood flow in as few as 10 minutes. The physical movement also encourages new brain cells, specifically in the regions of the brain associated with critical thinking.
All in all, a standing desk is a good idea because it can improve physical, metabolic, and mental health. Which is why sitting less and standing more is such a significant lifestyle change in your work life. If you are interested in trying out a standing desk, you can purchase one online or even check out stores that sell office furniture. Make wellness a way of life!