We’ve got some scary news about what happens when you spend too much time watching Netflix
Obviously, an active lifestyle keeps your body healthy: We know that sitting all day is bad for you and that regular exercise can literally save you money. However, according to Fox News a new study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention just gave us some scary news: 31 million Americans are at risk for chronic disease, primarily because they’re inactive.
31 MILLION.
That’s a staggering number; in fact, it’s 28% of adults ages 50 and over. These particular adults aren’t active beyond the normal movements in every day life, which really isn’t sufficient.
Says Dr. Janet E. Fulton, chief of the CDC’s Physical Activity and Health Branch and study author,
"Adults benefit from any amount of physical activity. Helping inactive people become more physically active is an important step towards healthier and more vibrant communities."
Luckily, that means even those of us without gym memberships and those of us who hate running can still stay healthy by engaging in more low-key exercise like taking walks, playing a sport with friends, or riding bikes.
In the study, the CDC analyzed 2014 survey data from participants in all of the 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and examined the habits using a number of factors including geographical region, sex, and more. The study found that inactivity typically increases with age, and that adults with one or more chronic disease(s) were typically less active than those who had none.
While it can be totally tempting to lay in bed all day watching the latest Netflix sensation on your laptop, consider this: The CDC says that being physically inactive is so costly, $860 billion dollars in healthcare costs each year come from non-institutionalized adults ages 50 and over. However, physical activity could prevent or manage four out of five of the most costly chronic conditions.
Said epidemiologist in CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity and lead study author Dr. Kathleen B. Watson,
"This report helps us better understand and address differences in inactivity among adults 50 years and older. More work is needed to make it safer and easier for people of all ages and abilities to be physically active in their communities."
So, maybe consider breaking up the TV binging with walks and easy exercises you can do at home – you’ll feel better, and the long term impact on your health will be a positive one.