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The National Health and Examination Survey (NHANES I) showed that people who engage in limited recreational activity were more likely to gain weight than more active people. Other studies have shown that people who engage in regular strenuous activity gain less weight than sedentary |
Physical activity and exercise
help burn
calories. The amount of calories burned depends on the type, duration,
and intensity of the activity. It also depends on the weight of the
person. A 200-pound person will burn more calories running 1 mile than
a 120-pound person, because the work of carrying those extra 80 pounds
must be factored in. But exercise as a treatment for obesity is most
effective when combined with a diet weight-loss program.
Exercise
alone
without diet will have a limited effect on weight because one has to
exercise a lot to simply lose one pound. However regular exercise is an
important part of a healthy lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight for
the long term. Another advantage of regular exercise as part of a
weight-loss
program is a greater loss of body fat versus lean muscle
compared to those who diet alone.
| Other benefits of exercise
include: Improved blood sugar control and increased insulin sensitivity (decreased insulin resistance) Reduced triglyceride levels and increased good HDL cholesterol levels Lowered blood pressure A reduction in |
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abdominal fat Reduced risk of heart disease. A study performed in men found those with moderate activity had a 23 percent lower risk of death than those who were less active.
Remember, these health benefits can occur independently (with or without) achieving weight loss. Before starting an exercise program, you should talk to your doctor about the type and intensity of the exercise program.
General exercise recommendations:
20-30 minutes of moderate exercise 5 to 7
days a week, preferably daily.
People are never too old to start exercising. Even frail, elderly individuals (ages 70-90 years) can improve their strength and balance.
Exercise precautions:
| The
following people should consult a doctor before vigorous
exercise: Men over age 40 or women over age 50. Individuals with heart
or lung disease, asthma, arthritis, or osteoporosis. Individuals who experience chest pressure or pain with exertion, or who develop fatigue or shortness of breath easily. |
Individuals with conditions that increase their risk of developing coronary heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cigarette smoking, high blood cholesterol, or having family members with early onset heart attacks and coronary heart disease