Benefits of Cardiovascular Health and Anti-Aging Practices
Physical activity has endless benefits that apply to people of all ages, sex, race, and ethnicities. It’s especially crucial for adults as it’s found that physically active adults face a lower risk for depression and cognitive disabilities and they age. When done regularly, exercise strengthens heart muscle and therefore improves its ability to pump blood and distribute oxygen to the rest of the body. As people age, they are more prone to coronary heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer (National Institute of Health).
As we age, our blood vessels become less and less flexible which makes blood flow difficult and blood pressure high (Tufts University School of Medicine). This is especially important in preventing coronary heart disease. Coronary heart disease is the buildup of plaque inside the arteries of the heart. Arteries play a critical role in supplying the heart muscles with oxygen-rich blood, so when plagues develop, it narrows the arteries and causes blood clot. Daily aerobic exercise such as jogging, swimming, and biking coupled with a sustainable lifestyle has many heart benefits, but it’s important to notice when you’re over-exercising. Over exercising can spike your heart rate and you may experience symptoms like fatigue and soreness.
In a study conducted by the Brigham Young University, it was discovered that people who ran intensely for thirty to forty minutes a day for five days a week were proven to be biologically younger than their peers. Physical activity has also been proven to change antibodies and white blood cells. White blood cells or WBC’s are crucial in regulating the immune system to fight off diseases, so when physical activity is applied, WBC’s circulate more rapidly to detect illnesses earlier (Medline Plus). Not only does exercise help with regulating stress hormones to lower the risk of illness, it may help with flushing bacteria that causes disease out of the lungs.
By Bianca Shen