Originally published February 8 2006
Naturopaths believe exercise significantly increases life span
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
For the Billings Gazette, naturopathic doctor Roberta Bourgon discusses how exercise increases longevity, builds bones and protects the heart against disease.
It would seem exercise is a bit like our diet.
We know vegetables are good for us, but given the choice between carrots or chocolate, most of us would choose the chocolate - the immediate gratification we are looking for.
The bottom line is that people who exercise regularly, on average, have a longer life span than those who do not.
The ideal workout schedule is 30 to 60 minutes, four to six times a week, but keep in mind any amount of activity is better than none.
Aerobic exercise, which includes brisk walking, swimming, biking, jogging, use of exercise bikes, treadmills and ski machines, is best for our hearts.
Exercise helps prevent and control other risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and high blood glucose levels.
In conjunction with a low-fat diet, regular activity can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering the total cholesterol level, as well as the level of LDL or "bad" cholesterol involved in plaque formation.
Exercise helps maintain an ideal body weight which has benefits including a reduced risk for heart disease, diabetes, certain types of cancer and arthritis.
To increase our basal metabolic rate, build lean body mass and lose weight, we need 60 to 90 minutes of activity most days.
Exercise is also crucial to bone health and osteoporosis prevention.
While most types of activity offer some protection against bone loss, weight-bearing exercise such as walking, jogging and strength training seem to offer the greatest benefit.
If we dread going to the gym, staying with it will be more difficult.
Try walking to the office or taking a stroll during lunch.
Make sure you talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program.
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