A new analysis has concluded that a sedentary lifestyle is two
times more likely than obesity to lead to early death. And, that adding even a very moderate amount
of activity such as a 20-minute brisk walk each day helps to reduce the risk of
premature death by as much as 30%. The
analysis revealed regardless of whether a person is at a healthy weight or
obese, going from inactive to active substantially reduces the risk of
premature death.
To
measure the link between physical inactivity and premature death, and its
interaction with obesity, researchers analyzed data from 334,161 men and women
across Europe participating in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer
and Nutrition (EPIC) Study. Participants were tracked for 12 years during which
their weight, waist circumference, and level of physical activity were
recorded. Over that period there were more than 21,000
deaths. Twice as many of the deaths were
attributed to inactivity than to extra weight.
Why
is exercise so linked to longevity? Aerobic
exercise exerts a potent effect on one's overall health. It has been shown to strengthen the
cardiovascular system, support the body's immune system, boost mental function,
mood & energy, bolster the musculoskeletal system, and reduce the risk of
most chronic diseases including heart and vascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
What to do: This study points out that regardless of
weight, even modest amounts of daily activity can make a big difference to our
longevity. And this is a good thing
because, often levels of activity are easier to change than bodyweight. So, get moving anyway you can. Healthy exercise need not be high
impact. Swimming, stationary bicycling,
elliptical, brisk walking, and seated aerobics are all excellent activity
options that spare the knees.
Adapted
from articles available at:
http://consumer.healthday.com/senior-citizen-information-31/misc-death-and-dying-news-172/lack-of-exercise-more-deadly-than-obesity-study-suggests-695505.html
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150114143118.htm
Source:
Ekelund
U, Ward HA, Norat T et al. Physical
activity and all-cause mortality across levels of overall and abdominal
adiposity in European men and women: the European Prospective Investigation
into Cancer and Nutrition Study (EPIC). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. First published January 14, 2015. DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.114.100065
No comments:
Post a Comment