Work it Out
By WLR Dietitian
Most WLR members know that taking more exercise and
being active every day is crucial when it comes to losing
weight – and equally importantly, keeping it off. This
month, the medical journals have included some more
unusual studies looking at different aspects of exercise
in terms of health and well-being.
First up, scientists from Brunel University have
clarified what many experts have known for years – that
thin people still need to exercise regularly in order to
stay healthy. Researchers looked at levels of ‘bad’ or LDL
cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease, and exercise
habits in three groups of people – those who were slim and
exercised, those who were slim but did no exercise, and
those who were obese but did no exercise. The results
showed that levels of bad cholesterol were high and almost
identical in both the slim and obese people who took no
exercise.
Dr Gary O’Donovan who led the study said, “Many
people, especially slim people, believe that the only
benefit that can be achieved from exercising is weight
loss. This is not the case. Our study suggests that slim
people need to exercise as much as others in order to stay
healthy and keep LDL cholesterol in check.”
Meanwhile, a study of more than 12,000 runners found
that, despite running miles every week, over time those
who didn’t increase the amount of exercise they took still
gained weight as they get older.
The researchers, who
published their findings in the American Journal of
Clinical Nutrition, say that in theory, even people who
exercise vigorously must still significantly increase the
amount of activity they do as they get older in order to
compensate for the expected weight gain associated with
ageing. This is unachievable though for most people and so
a slight reduction in calorie intake – for example,
skipping one biscuit a day – is often more practical.
Finally, a survey carried out by the US Federal
Government has shown that older women who regularly go to
church are more likely to exercise than those who are
non-religious or attend infrequently! Although a link
between religion and exercise wasn’t found for men or
younger women, the researchers suggest religious beliefs
or health programmes sponsored by the church might
encourage older women to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Other health experts, however, are sceptical about
promoting a link between religion and fitness for fear of
alienating non-religious people.
WLR says:
These three very different pieces of research highlight
the importance of exercise for everyone – regardless of
how they chose to spend their leisure time or whether they
are slim, overweight or already extremely fit.
Taking part
in sport or getting physically active helps to burn off
excess calories so you lose weight, and then helps you to
maintain that weight loss. Exercise also helps to reduce
the risk of many health problems, such as heart disease
and osteoporosis.
For good health, everyone should aim to do 30 minutes
of moderate intensity activity five times a week. In the
meantime, remember to check with your GP before starting a
new exercise programme, particularly if you haven't
exercised for some time. |
