Exercise is an Effective Anti- aging and Anti-disease Fighter

Exercise

It is important for good health,functional independence and quality of life in older adults. There are many "ways to stay healthy", a work-out is one. For older adults it is one key to good health by slowing the effects of aging, especially heart disease and osteoporosis. It is an effective anti-aging and anti-disease fighter.

Benefits on Blood Pressure and Bone Density

Physical activity helps to regulate blood pressure and boost the good HDL cholesterol. It also reduces obesity, which contributes to diabetes and heart disease. A good work-out, especially weight bearing exertion has a positive effect on bone density and thus can help prevent osteoporosis. One institution recommends 15 to 60 minutes of aerobic activity at least 3 to 5 times a week. Your heart rate should not exceed 60 to 90% of maximal rate which is 220 beats per minute minus your current age.

Weight lifting studies show a 1% gain in bone density of the hip and spine in women 50 to 70 years old. The group that did not lift weights showed a loss of 2.5% in bone density. The training group also showed a strength increase of from 35% to 70%, balance improved 14% and general activity improved 27%.

Cellular Rejuvenation

Another research study measured mitochondrial function in elderly people before and after a 6 month program of 1 hour of strength training twice weekly. An analysis of the groups muscle cell biopsies against a control group of age 20 somethings, showed the elderly group's cells had reversed course and were now more like the younger group's cells.

Workouts and Dieting

It is also true that a good work-out must accompany dieting. Thin persons who don't workout can have hidden fat in their bodies and won't necessarily be healthier than over-weight persons. Just get some exercise!

Heart Disease
Organic
Anti-Aging
MedicineNet Senior Exercise
Exercise to Senior Wellness Center