The next time someone asks you what you do at the gym, don’t simply reply with “workout.” Instead, tell that person you go to the gym to fight disease. Like medicine and nutrient-rich foods, exercise is one of the most effective tools for disease prevention. People that exercise regularly not only are more likely to be skinny, but also more likely to live longer and less likely to get sick. Here are some of the diseases that you can prevent with a daily dose of exercise.
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Arthritis
Arthritis debilitates the body; limiting motion and causing severe pain. While your inclination is to rest and let your body recuperate, the best weapon against the effects of arthritis is movement, such as exercise. Exercise has been found to alleviate pain and increase strength and flexibility in those that suffer from arthritis. It also burns fat, lowering the pressure on joints.
Cancer
Studies indicate that exercise can prevent many forms of cancer. But that’s not all. Exercise limits the chance of recurrence in survivors, and helps alleviate the side effects of cancer treatment.
Heart Disease
Precursors to heart disease include high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol and a high weight. Routine exercise lowers each one. By being active you can limit the damage done to blood vessels from foods high in fat.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is typically caused from being over weight. Regular exercise lowers weight, thus preventing type 2 diabetes as well as helping eradicate it. By exercising you can better keep blood-glucose levels normal.