Physical stress in old age can protect against chronic diseases
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Maintaining physical activity at any age is very important.
This is confirmed by scientists from the North-Western Medical Center, who conducted research in collaboration with colleagues from the Cooper Institute.
For many decades, studies were conducted to study the benefits of physical exercise using cardio-vascular elements.
But their benefits were not appreciated for the elderly, and how many chronic diseases can be saved if you practice every day.
"We found out that being in good physical shape and engaging every day, you can not only maintain vitality, but also get rid of many chronic diseases," says Dr. Jared Berry, assistant professor of the Department of Internal Medicine.
In the survey of experts, 18670 people aged between 70 and 84 took part. For the analysis of their state of health, archival medical records were kept, records of which were kept for forty years.
The collected documentation was examined, including taking into account the health problems and complaints of patients at the moment.
It turned out that people who in middle age performed more physical exercises, were less exposed to chronic diseases in their old age and felt younger than their biological age. Their peers, who do not lead such an active lifestyle, often suffered from Alzheimer's, colon cancer and other ailments. The effect of using this technique in men and women was equivalent.
This study confirms the positive effect of a gradual increase in physical activity, be it running or walking, which in consequence, in old age, will free a person from the shackles of senile diseases.
According to the National Institutes of Health, an adult should perform an obligatory rate of intensive physical activity at least two and a half hours per week. This is necessary for the normal functioning of the heart and other vital organs.
Here are a few rules that you need to follow when doing physical training:
- Before you begin, consult an expert.
- Choose comfortable shoes and clothes.
- Training should start slowly, gradually increasing the workload and duration of classes.
- Begin the activity with a warm-up - prepare the body for more serious exercises.
- Stick to one set of exercises.
- The intensity of physical exercises is satisfied to a maximum gradually, so that breathing becomes more frequent and the number of heartbeats increases.
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