A new study indicates that long periods of sitting can increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

The study, conducted in the Netherlands, found that sitting an extra 40 minutes or more a day increased odds of developing the disease by 22 percent.

The finding is consistent with the notion that sedentary behavior can increase the chance of obesity and heart-related disease like hypertension, high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes, according to Dr. Jedan Phillips, of Stony Brook Medical School.

Experts recommend regular exercise to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting.

Doctors also recommend taking periodic breaks from sitting at a desk or in front of the TV.