While a healthy lifestyle always has a myriad of benefits, the importance of exercise and nutrition is especially apparent now. With coronavirus (COVID) posing a growing concern for both healthy and unhealthy individuals, people are increasingly looking to understand the positive impact that good nutrition, exercise, and complementary health approaches may have on their lives. Here are some of the proven advantages of regular exercise and a healthy diet:
A stronger immune system
Regular physical activity encourages the flushing of bacteria out of the body. This is especially the case for areas such as the lungs and airways, where bacteria can more easily accumulate. “Exercise also stimulates an increase in white blood cell (WBC) count, which helps the body fight infections and other forms of disease” says Dr Evelyn Mora, physical therapist in Pembroke Pines, FL. This means that consistent physical activity can assist in maintaining upper respiratory health. This is crucial to help fight COVID should you test positive.
Improved emotional control
According to Mora, aerobic activity, or exercise that causes your heart rate to rise, also has a positive impact on hormones within the body. Specifically, exercise lowers levels of the body’s natural stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) while increasing the production of endorphins, which help regulate pain and improve mood. When there is an equal balance between these hormones, individuals experience more regulated mood and lower stress levels. An added bonus: lowering stress helps boost the body’s immune response.
A healthier heart
“By increasing your heart rate through exercise, you are not only improving the body’s circulation, but also making your heart stronger and more resilient” says Mora, owner of Healers of Motion Physical Therapy. A healthy heart is a good indicator of the body’s general condition, as it lowers your risk of many health concerns such as stroke, heart disease, high cholesterol, heart attack, and high blood pressure.
In addition to preventing these major cardiovascular conditions, exercise can also decrease your chances of developing diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, certain types of cancer, and dementia.
Regulated body weight
One of the most well-known and motivating advantages of exercise is weight loss or weight maintenance. Aerobic activity helps individuals burn more calories in order to develop a leaner figure. While some individuals might exclusively look toward diet modifications to lose weight, the only way to sustain long-term weight loss is through consistent exercise. Moreover, weight loss is another way to lower your risk of the health conditions mentioned above (stroke, heart disease, etc.).
Exercise for better Sleep
It seems each one of us is constantly on a journey to get better (or more) sleep. A great way to do this is by exercising. Several research studies have shown that exercise has an effect on the body similar to that of sleeping pills. This means it is easier to fall asleep and stay sleeping when you exercise regularly. Data shows that 30 minutes of moderate physical activity may improve the quality of sleep the same night. Individuals who exercise often notice these effects are lasting as long as they continue to engage in physical activity.
If you are living with a health condition, the best way to engage in safe, consistent exercise is to visit a physical therapy provider. At Healers of Motion Physical Therapy in Pembroke Pines, FL, we can assist you in lowering pain levels, improving motion, decreasing swelling, and managing other symptoms associated with chronic or acute health concerns.
For more information on how we can help improve your quality-of-life by strengthening your body and mind, contact Healers of Motion today!
We proudly provide physical therapy services to patients in Pembroke Pines, as well as the surrounding areas of Weston, Southwest Ranches, Cooper City, Miramar and Davie.