Participation in a physical fitness program has been cited as beneficial in improving health and fitness levels. Proper nutrition provides nutrients for optimal body functioning. According to Dr. Warren Willey of Walk-In Weight Loss, diet and exercise can be just as effective as certain medications in the treatment of illnesses and injuries. In addition, diet and exercise can actually prevent many illnesses and injuries. This is something that medications cannot do.
Definition
Medications, or prescription drugs, are defined as medicine requiring a medical professional's prescription in order to be obtained. Medications are regulated by the government and must contain warnings about possible side effects and potential problems with certain allergies. In 1987, the Prescription Drug Marketing Act required safety warnings to be issued on all prescription medication.
Significance
As the baby boomer population ages, the demand for medication increases. According to Consumer Reports, 287 billion dollars were spent on prescription drugs in 2007. With increased use of medication comes an increased chance of dependency and addiction. Reports of abuse began to surface in the 1990s and have been on the upswing ever since, Many of the conditions requiring medication are due to an unhealthy lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle has been shown to improve many of the conditions that medication is prescribed for.
Features
Medications are often prescribed for problems with your cardiovascular system. Conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol inhibit the ability to circulate blood through your body. These conditions often lead to serious heart problems. Cardio exercise strengthens your cardiovascular system, resulting in decreased blood pressure. Diet and exercise improves cholesterol levels, reducing the potential for heart problems. Medications are typically prescribed to improve mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. In a study by Daniel Landers at Arizona State University, exercise was cited as an alternative to psychotherapy or drug therapy in treating mental conditions. Exercise has been shown to promote sound mental health as well as physical health.
Function
Cardio training places a greater than normal demand on your heart and lungs to provide fuel for activity. This training increases your stroke volume, the amount of blood in each heartbeat. When stroke volume increases, your heart can supply adequate blood with a reduced number of heartbeats. As your heart rate lowers, the stress placed on your heart also decreases. This can decrease your blood pressure. Exercise releases endorphins in your brain, which improves your mood and has a calming affect on your body. Increased levels of relaxation reduces anxiety and depression.
Considerations
Please consult a doctor regarding the use of diet and exercise in the treatment illnesses and injuries instead of medications. For first-time exercisers, it is recommended that you see a doctor before starting an exercise program. There are exercise modifications that should be used when suffering from various health problems.
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