Stand up for your heart

A 2025 study found that people who are sedentary for 10.6 hours per day or more may face a higher risk of heart failure or dying from heart disease—even if they follow recommended exercise guidelines. Uninterrupted sitting has harmful effects on metabolism, leading the body to burn fewer calories and less fat. It can also cause blood sugar levels to rise, triggering the release of insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Over time, sedentary habits cause the body to become less sensitive to insulin. The resulting insulin resistance promotes inflammation, a key player in the buildup of fatty plaque inside arteries.