Working moms may race around a lot, but many of us also spend hours with our butts planted in our chairs. Besides burning fewer calories sitting than we do standing, we’re upping our risk for certain diseases, says a study from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Researchers there found that prolonged sitting had a negative impact on fat and cholesterol metabolism. “Enzymes in the blood vessels of muscles responsible for fat burning are shut off within hours of not standing,” explains Marc Hamilton, PhD, an associate professor of biomedical sciences. This may lead to greater fat and cholesterol retention, which can increase your risk for heart disease and diabetes. To get up on your feet more often: Pace while talking on the phone; encourage coworkers to have walking meetings; take a walking break in the afternoon and get some fresh air.