Junk Food and Inactivity- The Risks

Junk Food and Inactivity- The Risks

We all want to live a long healthy life. That includes you, right? If that weren't the case, then you would not be reading this blog right now. However, during our quest for a healthier existence we are faced with distractions, adversity and even some very tough block walls. If we are to keep the course we must be reminded once in a while of the risks we take when we live inactive lives and eat all the wrong stuff. So here goes...motivation via facts:

The risks associated with inactivity and obesity are more than simply cosmetic. Serious medical conditions and diseases linked to obesity include coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, gallbladder disease, osteoarthritis (deterioration of joints), respiratory problems and some cancers. No one can prevent these illnesses altogether. However, studies have shown that you can significantly reduce your chances of getting many of these illnesses by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight.

Women are also at higher risk than men of developing Osteoporosis later in life. Osteoporosis which means porous bones is a condition of fragile skeleton that results in fractured and broken bones. Risk factors for Osteoporosis include among other things Age, gender (that means you ladies), low calcium and vitamin D, Menopause, Hysterectomy, being underweight, and lack of exercise. Although some of these risk factors cannot be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly play a big role in the prevention of this disease. The Food and Drug Administration suggests that weight-bearing exercises such as walking or biking over the course of many years can not only prevent Osteoporosis, but can actually reverse its progression by stimulating the bone cells to build and maintain stronger bones (Exercise can reverse the progression of osteoporosis. If that's not motivation enough...) The benefits of exercise increase as we get older also since physical fitness increases muscle strength, balance, and agility making falls that can potentially cause fractures less likely.

So there you have it ladies (and gents). Not only can we look our very best at any age by exercising and eating healthy, but we'll also be helping prevent some pretty painful and costly illnesses later in life!!!