nderstanding the efficacy of reducing workplace sedentary time through increased standing on cardio-metabolic health: an experimental study in overweight, middle aged males using a simulated workplace environment.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine whether reductions in sitting time through alternating 30-min bouts of sitting and standing can reduce postprandial glucose, insulin, and triglyceride responses. Methods: Twenty-three overweight/obese sedentary office workers undertook two short-term (5 d) experimental conditions in an equal, randomized (1:1) order. In a simulated office environment, participants performed typical occupational tasks for 8 h/d while in a 1) seated work posture (control condition) or 2) interchanging between a seated and standing work posture every 30 min using an electric, height-adjustable workstation (intervention condition). Fasting and postprandial blood samples after a mixed test drink were collected hourly for 4 h on days 1 and 5 of each condition to assess serum insulin, plasma glucose, and triglycerides. Dietary intake and physical activity were standardized during each condition. Results: After adjustment for time (days 1 and 5), incremental area under the analyte time curve differed significantly between conditions for plasma glucose (P = 0.007) but not for serum insulin or plasma triglycerides. Mean glucose response curve was lowered by 11.1% after the intervention condition. Conclusions: Alternating standing and sitting in 30-min bouts results in modest beneficial effects on postprandial glucose