Doctor's Orders: You Should Fidget All Day (Your Heart Will Thank You)

Toe tapping. Foot jiggling. Leg shaking. If those movements describe your activity as you sit at your desk all day, congratulation. You may be fidgeting your way to a longer life.

Now we've heard those studies that say people who sit at a desk all day are at higher risk for an early death, even if they hit the gym after work.

Fidgeting may be just what the doctor ordered.

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine finds people who fidget seem to cancel out the ill effects of being a desk sitter during the workday.

Sure, some have tried other techniques, like standing desks, treadmill work stations, frequent walks around the office, but most people don't have those options.

This research suggests you shake a leg instead.

The study followed more than 13,000 people between the ages of 37 and 78 over a 12 year period.
And the big question was: are you a rare, occasional, frequent, or constant fidgeter? (The ranking went from a 1-10, with a 1 being a person who sits like a statue, while a 10 is shaking and baking through the day.)

It turns out, the more fidgeting, the better your health.

Those who were up in the frequent and constant range cancelled out the effect of sitting all day. Diet, alcohol, and smoking were factored into the analysis as well.

Researchers believe that the fidgeters had healthy changes in their metabolism that strict sitters don't get. And that means fewer stress chemicals, lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and so forth. Essentially it seems to be a health healthy habit.

So I guess the message here is if you're not moving, maybe it's time to tap out a tune with that leg of yours while you sit all day.

One side effect: Irritation. Just make sure you don't bother the heck out of those around you. Those who can't sit still sure can drive those around them a little crazy -- and the angry looks that come your way are a job stress you don't need.

Maybe it's best to tell them you are literally fidgeting to your heart's content.

In fact, it may be time for me to write you another one of those work notes. It's hard to argue with doctor's orders.

Dr. Dave Hnida is CBS4's Medical Editor. He blogs about the latest studies and trends in the health world. Read his latest blog entries, check out his bio or follow him on Twitter @drdavehnida