If a daily fitness walk could be put in a pill, it
would be one of the most effective prescriptions in
the world because it has so many health benefits.
Walking can reduce
the risk of many diseases and the list below is an
overview of what can be accomplished, simply by
walking.
Controlling
Blood Pressure
Physical activity
strengthens the heart and reduces the levels of LDL
(bad cholesterol) in the blood, which can cause
plaque build up in the arteries. As a result the
heart can pump more blood with
less effort and with less pressure on the arteries.
Staying fit is just as effective as some medications
in regulating our blood pressure.
Decreasing
the Risk of Heart Attack
Brisk walking for 30 minutes, 5 times a
week, is associated with a 30% to 40%
lower risk of heart disease in women.
Lowering
the Risk of Stroke
Brisk walking for an hour a
day, five days a week, can cut the risk of stroke in
half.
Reducing
the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
People at high risk for diabetes can cut
their risk in half by combining consistent exercise,
like walking, with lower fat intake and a 5% to 7%
weight loss.
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