Archives for September 2021

If you work in an office job, you already know that you probably sit too much. But, do you know the problems associated with living a sedentary lifestyle? According to Marla Ahlgrimm, there are many. Keep reading as the women’s health expert, medical company founder, and self-help author answers a few quick questions about the risks of sitting too much.

Q: What type of jobs involve sitting the most?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Office jobs and on-the-road driving jobs are the two that come to mind. When you work in an administrative, creative, or knowledge-based position, you likely use a computer most of the time. Similarly, when you drive a truck or operate a train, you may be sitting for 10 hours at a time.

Q: What is the most significant risk involved in having a sedentary job?

Marla Ahlgrimm: A recent analysis of more than a dozen research studies found that people who sit for eight hours or more each day without physical activity during these hours were just as unhealthy is people that smoked and were obese. However, working out just 60 minutes each week can almost entirely offset these risks. 

Q: How can I be more active when I have a desk job?

Marla Ahlgrimm: One of the best things you can do for yourself is to take breaks about every half hour. If possible, use a standing desk. You might even be able to convince some colleagues to go for a walk around your office instead of sitting for a small meeting.

Q: Are there other benefits to walking more even if I have an active job?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Absolutely. Walking is a great cardiovascular exercise that can help you burn fat and tone muscles. Just as importantly, walking around the neighborhood or your local shopping mall with friends is an excellent way to socialize.

Hormones are tiny chemical messengers that tell your body what to do. But, according to Marla Ahlgrimm, your hormones can hit roadblocks. One of these is when you do not get enough sleep. Not getting enough (or getting too much) can change the way your body produces hormones. This can affect everything.

Q: What do hormones control?

Marla Ahlgrimm: Your hormones play a major role in the vast majority of your bodily functions. They regulate your circadian rhythm, blood pressure, and heart rate. Hormones also drive your sexual function and even your appetite.

Q: What hormones does sleep deprivation affect?

Marla Ahlgrimm: When you sleep, your body regulates many hormones. If you do not get at least seven hours each night, you may experience issues with cortisol, progesterone, ghrelin, thyroid and growth hormones, and melatonin. Virtually every hormone in your body is signaled by your circadian rhythm.

Q: What are the potential side-effects of hormone deficiency caused by sleep deprivation?

Marla Ahlgrimm: People who do not get enough sleep may experience weight gain and frequent infections. They are also at a higher risk of illnesses and may consume more calories than necessary at one sitting.

Q: How can I make up for my sleep deficit?

Marla Ahlgrimm: If you’re getting at least six hours each night during the week, you may be able to give yourself up to 10 additional hours on the weekend. However, if you’re only sleeping four hours each night, the chances of being able to “make it up” are little to none. Your best bet is to go to bed on time each night so that you wake refreshed and ready to tackle the day every day. Your hormones will thank you for it.