Step Away from Chronic Diseases

After working in an office all day, it feels great to hit the gym and get your body moving.

You might exercise regularly every week.

But did you know you’re still at greater risk for chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity and fatty liver disease?

A recent study from the University of Missouri found that “negative physiological changes associated with a higher risk for type 2 diabetes” occur in people who go from taking 10,000 steps in one day to fewer than 5,000 steps the next day.

“If people can add some regular movement into their routines throughout the day, they will feel better and be less susceptible to health problems,” said John Thyfault, MU researcher in a news release. “In the long term, they may not see big changes in the mirror, but they will prevent further weight gain.”

So how many extra steps should we be taking?

“Everyone should try to take at least 10,000 steps a day,” said Scott Rector, a MU assistant professor of nutrition and exercise physiology. He examined the relationship between sedentary lifestyles and fatty liver disease.

“It doesn’t have to happen all at once, but 500 to 1,000 steps every few hours is a good goal. Small changes can increase the number of steps people take in their daily routines. Changes might include taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking to a coworker’s office rather than calling, or planning time for short walks throughout the day.”

Source: University of Missouri

Alice Warchol is a fitness instructor and freelance health writer.