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 is often very difficult. Whatever little thing you can do to start burning calories will begin the recovery process. If you fight it, and start small, you will succeed.
Recent studies show that elevated temperatures during exercise is an indication that the immune system is working to flush out toxins in the body. As toxins pass through the skin, or are expelled in the mucus of the nose, allergy symptoms are often relieved.
A good nights sleep can improve your concentration, productivity, and your mood. Sleep is brought on by the chemical byproduct of your body burning sugar during the day. The more sugar you burn (the more active you are) the more of these chemicals are released, helping you sleep better and deeper.
Physical activity can help the diabetic control blood glucose levels, weight, and blood pressure, as well as raise "good" cholesterol and lower your "bad" cholesterol. It can also help prevent heart and blood flow problems, reducing the risk of heart disease and nerve damage, which are often problems for people with diabetes.
No matter what age, sex or physical condition you find yourself in today, you can benefit from a regular exercise program. From preventing chronic health conditions to boosting your self-esteem and confidence, the merits of exercise are hard to ignore. Physical activity, along with a good nutritious diet, will prevent and in many cases cure many diseases.