Today, about 68 percent of U.S. adults are overweight or obese. This number has grown a lot in recent years. A new study may help explain why. Researchers found that we burn about 100 fewer calories at work every day than people did 50 years ago. The reason is simple. Since the 1960s, not many people have jobs that require as much physical activity, like farming. More people have desk jobs that require them to move a lot less.
Increase your workday activity
Do you sit in front of a computer all day? You can still take steps to prevent obesity. Here’s what you can do to boost your daily activity:
- Stand while using the telephone
- Walk to a coworker’s desk instead of emailing or calling them
- Use the stairs, not the elevator
- Take a walk during lunch