It makes perfect sense that sitting in front of the TV or computer for days on end can contribute to obesity. After all, when you’re sitting, you’re not exercising, and any excess calories you consume are stored as fat rather than burned as fuel.

However, scientists have discovered an additonal physiological basis for why being sedentary may contribute to obesity: it turns out that sitting down cuts down the body’s circulation, and along with it, the flow of the protein lipase in the blood. Lipase is fat absorbing enzyme that initiates fat and cholesterol metabolism, such that when we stand up, the engagement of our muscles actually promotes its distribution, irregardless of how much of that time is spent exercising. Standing up also consumes blood glucose, which could be a factor in the development of diabetes.

The findings are reason enough for people to stand up and be healthy, and support the potential hazards that the simple act of sitting down may have. At the very least, they make the case that too much time in a sitting position may have more adverse consequences than we realize.

That is because extensive amounts of sitting seems to stall our body’s fat burning processes. Numerous studies have found a link between too much sitting and such chronic conditions as heart disease and diabetes, both of which can stem from obesity. While this may seem like common sense since when we sit we are not burning calories, it turns out that sitting virtually shuts the enzyme off.

As a result, fat circulates through the blood stream where it can clog arteries and increase body fat. In fact, observational findings have found that blood samples taken after meals from people sitting versus standing supported this idea.

This had led some experts to encourage people to, whenever possible, stand while engaging in assorted activities, including watching over your children, reading a book or newspaper, talking on the phone, or even (say it isn’t so!) watching TV. While the idea of watching the big game on your feet may be unthinkable, the benefits to your health may be worth the sacrifices, including the burning of extra calories.

If standing the entire time is not an option, take frequent breaks from sitting by standing up and walking around. This will help promote circulation, and it could have a positive impact on your serum cholesterol levels, particularly the HDLs, or high density lipoproteins (the good stuff).

Besides, getting up out of your chair will probably make you feel better, and it’s a good chance, if you so choose, to move around and socialize with your friends and co-workers. And taking a break often leads to greater clarity, not to mention a fresh perspective on whatever it is you are working on…including a blog.

For more information on cholesterol and fat, speak with your physician, and visit the website for the American Heart Association.