by John Phillip

Created on: July 31, 2010

The health of Americans has been slowly declining for the past half century, due in part to the dramatic rise in processed junk foods which comprise the bulk of our diet, and a general lack of physical activity. Many children and young adults will find they are part of the first generation to live shorter lives when compared to their parents.

Medical researchers have made great strides over the last 10 years discovering how detrimental a poor diet and lack of exercise can be to our health, and regularly promote a well balanced, reduced calorie

diet and regular physical activity.

This advice is underscored by the results of a large study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology which showed that moderate physical activity reduces all causes of death by as much as 24%, and assists in promoting healthy weight loss goals.

Moderate Exercise 5 Days a Week

The results of this study are important because they demonstrate that people can begin exercise at any age and begin to realize the life-extension benefits. Weight loss is another critical consideration, as regular exercise improves blood sugar and insulin response which leads to the release of body fat.

This study showed that exercising 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week provides almost the same benefit as those who exercised an hour each day, every day of the week. The bottom line is to get moving, regardless of your age.

Our muscles have evolved to be active, and when we’re sedentary, the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes increase by as much as 50%. U.S. News and World Report details the 5 essential benefits of exercise to your health.

1. Reverses the Effects of Stress

Stress is an unseen killer which increases levels of the ‘fight or flight’ hormone cortisol on a sustained basis. Exercise promotes the release of calming brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine which naturally reverse the effects of stress. Lowering cortisol will naturally assist weight loss, as inflammation will be reduced, and metabolism will shift toward burning fat.

2. Lifts Depression

Burning 350 calories by exercising 3 days a week has been shown to alleviate the symptoms of depression as well as an antidepressant. Exercise can stimulate the growth of neurons in the brain, and restores connections between brain cells. Antidepressants are dangerous drugs with a host of potential side effects. Exercise will help you to feel better about yourself which helps you stick with your healthy eating plan.

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