Sitting makes us fat

Ellen says: We all know that sitting can contribute to weight problems and common sense tells us that sitting doesn't burn calories just by sitting, standing or walking.

New research on the simple act of sitting indicates that our fat burning enzymes actually turn off if we are seated for extended periods of time. Long bouts of sitting can also slow down your metabolism and lower your beneficial HDL cholesterol. It seems like we just weren't meant to sit at a desk all day long.

Here are a few ideas for getting up and out of your chair. Try to walk at lunch or for your coffee breaks. Don't send an e-mail, get up and talk to a co-worker face to face. Stand while talking on a phone, or pace and talk if able. Or why not throw in a few exercises while you're at your desk?