Exercise reduces the risk of developing a multitude of chronic health conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain neurological diseases. Exercise is also an effective treatment for mood disorders like depression and improves the overall quality of life. A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in November of 2005 showed that daily exercise actually increases life span by nearly four years.
Researchers examined the medical records of more than 5,000 middle-aged and elderly Americans taking part in the Framingham Heart Study, finding that those who had moderate to high levels of activity lived 1.3 to 3.7 years longer than those who got little exercise. They cite the reason appears to be linked to offsetting heart disease which is the number one cause of death in the United States.
Moderate activity is defined as more than 30 minutes of walking, at least 5 days per week. This level was associated with a 1.3-1.5 year increase in lifespan. High activity like running five times per week for 30 minutes has an even greater effect, increasing life span by 3.5-3.7 years. A sedentary lifestyle is one of the most devastating factors for health. Being active is essential to overall health and well-being, not only increasing lifespan, but reducing morbidity and staying disease free.
Posted by Dr. Jennifer Stagg on August 13, 2006 04:18 PM
