Walk to Reverse Metabolic Disease

Researchers from Duke University reported in December 15 edition of the American Journal of Cardiology that that walking provides a significant benefit in reversing metabolic syndrome components. The metabolic syndrome is defined by increased abdominal fat, elevated blood pressure, blood sugar and triglycerides, as well as low levels of the protective form of cholesterol known as HDL. Metabolic syndrome doubles the risk for cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and death from cardiovascular disease. For overweight or obese individuals who are physically inactive, brisk walking equivalent to 1 to 2 miles most days of the week might be the best exercise prescription for shedding excess pounds and reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome. This benefit occurred even without a change in diet. The study used data collected from the Studies of Targeted Risk Reduction Intervention through Defined Exercise (STRRIDE). Interestingly, the study also found that in terms of improving metabolic syndrome the same amount of exercise at a more vigorous intensity did not significantly improve results. In short, sedentary life is injurious to metabolic health while moderate activity is sufficient to reverse much of the associated risk.