Millions of Americans suffer from inflammation and you may not know it. Daily exercise can reduce the effects of inflammation and improve quality of life.
Dr. Nathaniel Franley, a physician in sports medicine and family medicine at Ashtabula County Medical Center, says doing at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week can rapidly reduce inflammation.
“There is no drug as powerful as this,” he said. “It’s like an investment in your body. Invest time and your body will give you a healthy return on that investment.”
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to disease, infection, or injury. Acute inflammation develops rapidly and resolves spontaneously within 2 weeks.
For example, a person may develop a sore throat from a cold or flu. An allergic reaction to food or something in the air can cause itchy skin.
Chronic inflammation is of greater concern as it indicates possible illness or injury.
Chronic inflammation lasting more than 6 weeks can manifest as body aches, fatigue or insomnia, depression or mood disorders, stomach problems such as constipation or diarrhea or acid reflux, or weight gain.
Rheumatoid arthritis, or inflammatory bowel disease, is a common autoimmune disease that includes inflammation as a symptom.
According to Franley, doctors now recommend exercise as the best way to prevent or slow the progression of inflammation.
“Look at heart disease. Inflammation in the arteries can lead to plaque buildup,” he said. Yes, we need to stay ahead of inflammation to prevent long-term problems.”
There are additional benefits to human health from daily cardiovascular exercise.
“We know that daily exercise reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 40%.
“It improves our minds and helps each of us live a quality life well into our 70s and 80s, so we can do what we want for ourselves. .”
Adding muscle-building exercise can lower your risk of diabetes and improve your metabolism to fight disease.
“There’s really no way around this,” Franley said.
“Our bodies need at least 30 minutes of exercise and strength training five days a week. It’s good for physical health, mental health, and emotional health.”
If you have been inactive or sedentary for a while, consult your doctor before starting an exercise program or routine. To schedule an appointment with an ACMC Primary Care Provider, call 440-997-6969.
