Sure, we’ve all heard that exercise is important and good for our hearts. But a 17-year study at Northwestern University found that physical activity in early adulthood actually reduces the risk for high blood pressure and diabetes in middle age by as much as 50 percent. This can then lessen the likelihood of developing heart disease and stroke later on.
The study also found that fitness decreases risk for metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a collection of factors, including too much abdominal fat, high blood pressure, high levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.
Of the 4,400 participants in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, those with low or moderate fitness had twice the risk for high blood pressure, diabetes and metabolic syndrome as those who were more fit. Also, those who were overweight tended to be less fit. Assistant professor of preventive medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern, Mercedes Carnethon, is sure that there would have been nearly a third fewer cases of all three conditions, had all the young adults in the study been fit.
These results are good news because 18 million Americans currently suffer from either heart disease or stroke. If people are more aware of the importance of exercise early in life, they can then take action and live healthier lives when they are older.
“Given the epidemic of obesity in the United States and the decline in people’s physical activity, it’s important that Americans take steps to improve their physical fitness,” says Carnethon.
The natural aging process is not necessarily the cause of health problems later on in life. While LDL levels and blood pressure are largely affected by genetics and diet, it is important to realize that a steady fitness routine can play a significant role in maintaining your health and state of well-being.
Find something that you enjoy doing, like walking, swimming or dancing. Doing the activity with a friend makes it more fun and can help keep you motivated. Talk with your health care provider or your pharmacist to develop a fitness routine that fits with your needs and goals for the future. Start moving!
