Sep 23, 2015 04:52 PM EDT By Staff Reporter, UniversityHerald Reporter

New research suggests that the movements involved in fidgeting may counteract the adverse health impacts of sitting for long periods Fidgeting could be good for your health, Forbes reported.

 Researchers at the University of Leeds and University College London found an increased risk of mortality from sitting for long periods was only found in those who consider themselves very occasional fidgeters.

"When sitting for prolonged periods, any movement might be good," Janet Cade, study co-lead author from the University of Leeds, told Forbes. "So although it might not be possible to sit less during the day due to work commitments, if people fidget at their desk it could be beneficial."

For the study, researchers collected and analyzed data from more than 35,000 women aged 35 to 69 who are living in the United Kingdom. They also analyzed data from a follow-up survey sent to the same women, which included questions on health behaviors, chronic disease, physical activity levels and fidgeting. More than 14,000 responses were received.

They found no increased risk of mortality from longer sitting times, compared to more active women, in those who considered themselves as moderately or very fidgety, The Washington Post reported.

"Our results support the suggestion that it's best to avoid sitting still for long periods of time, and even fidgeting may offer enough of a break to make a difference," Dr. Gareth Hagger-Johnson , study co-lead author from University College London, said in a statement.

The study builds on growing evidence suggesting that a sedentary lifestyle is bad for your health, even if you are physically active outside work.

The findings are detailed in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

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