by Kathy Stemke

Created on: August 08, 2008   Last Updated: September 22, 2008

Pharmaceutical sales are off the charts. Doctors seem to be in the pill prescribing business. People are even taking pills to counteract the negative effects of their medications. A moderate consistent exercise program can prevent and in many cases cure some of these common diseases. If you have insomnia, back pain, arthritis, allergies, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or bouts with depression, don't reach for a pill; grab a dumbbell instead.

The number of people plagued by diseases caused by obesity is on the rise all over the world. The lack of exercise causes obesity, which, in turn causes disease and often premature death. A moderate consistent exercise program can prevent and in many cases cure some of these common diseases.

Moderate exercise has proven to lower high blood pressure, improve cholesterol, and burn fat. Exercising increases metabolism, which causes the breakdown of LDL or bad cholesterol. The elimination of LDL reduces your chances of developing hardening of the arteries, heart disease, and stroke. Exercises like swimming, jogging, or even brisk walking increase blood flow and good cholesterol levels. A simple 30-minute a day exercise routine could reduce your risk of heart disease and stoke as much as 20%.

Fat stored around a joint weakens the supportive muscles, and causes stress and inflammation in the joint. This causes arthritis and pain. Regular exercise relieves stiffness and joint pain while increasing muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance. Even if the disease has started it is not too late, because exercise reduces the symptoms of existing arthritis.

If you've had or know anyone who's had back pain, you know how debilitating it can be. Exercise helps keep the discs in the back healthy by allowing fluid exchange. This exchange helps reduce swelling and increases nutrition to the back. Physical activity also keeps the connective fibers of ligaments and tendons flexible, which prevents injuries. Strengthening exercises for the abdomen and back muscles create a kind of internal corset of support for the back.

Chemicals and hormones that build up in our bodies often cause depression. Exercise helps our bodies flush out these chemicals. The Harvard Mental Health Letter explains that enhanced body image, distraction from everyday stresses, heightened self-confidence, and the circulation of serotonin, norepinephrine, and endorphins enhance the mood of individuals who exercise. But to start an exercise program while depressed

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