Doctors suggest that during long periods of sitting, you should flex and extend your feet at the ankles periodically and squeeze your calf muscles to assist with blood circulation. Why would non-exercise muscle contraction affect blood flow and cardiovascular health?
A)Contraction of muscles itself increases heart rate and burns calories, keeping the heart strong and assisting in maintaining healthy weight.
B)Contraction of muscles stimulates the arteries to vasodilate, reducing blood pressure.
C)Contraction of the leg muscles stimulates baroreceptors to signal the autonomic nervous system and decrease blood pressure and heart rate from multiple fronts.
D)Contraction of the leg muscles squeezes leg veins, which functions as a pumping mechanism to return deoxygenated blood to the heart.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Contraction of the leg muscles squeezes the leg veins, which functions as a pumping mechanism to return deoxygenated blood to the heart. This helps to maintain blood flow and prevent pooling of blood in the legs, which can lead to blood clots and other circulatory issues. This is particularly important during long periods of sitting, as lack of movement can contribute to reduced blood flow and increased risk for these issues.

Doctors Suggest That During Long Periods of Sitting, You Should