The Biggest Blockbuster Drug – NOT what you think!
Maybe you thought about the COVID drugs or statins or weight loss pills!
NOPE.
It’s EXERCISE !
The Biggest Blockbuster Drug Can
- Create a brain growth factor (BDNF), which is basically Miracle Grow for your brain.
- Improve your mood
- Boost your energy
- Reduce overall stress in your body and mind
- Improve insulin sensitivity (Less insulin means less belly fat)
- Enhances detoxification (sweat can release toxins)
- Supports restorative sleep
- Strengthens bones and muscles
- Promotes better immune function
- Help maintain a healthy lean muscle mass and weight
How Much Exercise?
For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends these exercise guidelines:
- Aerobic activity. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity.
- Strength training. Do strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least two times a week. Aim to do a single set of each exercise using a weight or resistance level heavy enough to tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 repetitions.
- Reducing sitting time. The more hours you sit each day, the higher your risk of metabolic problems. Sitting too much can negatively impact your health and longevity, even if you get the recommended amount of daily physical activity. And some research has found that people who’ve lost weight may be more likely to keep off the lost weight by sitting less during the day.
Short on long chunks of time?
Even brief bouts of activity offer benefits. For instance, if you can’t fit in one 30-minute walk during the day, try a few five-minute walks instead. Any activity is better than none at all. What’s most important is making regular physical activity part of your lifestyle.
REFERENCES
- Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. 2nd ed. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. HERE
- Tips for starting physical activity. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/tips-get-active/tips-starting-physical-activity. Accessed June 15, 2021.
- Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. June 16, 2021
Other Bogs on this Topic
Exercise Is A Prescription for Health
Top Ten Ways to Incorporate Exercise into your Day
Editor’s Note – The information in this article is intended for your educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.
