Thus, the primary strategy for preventing heart attacks and strokes is to both slow the build-up of atherosclerosis plaques and to stabilize plaques that are already formed (common in most older persons) so that they don't rupture. A new study shows this is exactly what happens in a long-term (6 months or more) exercise program.
Researchers used two groups of animals in their study. One group of animals exercised 50 minutes a day for 6 months. The other group was sedentary. Both groups were fed a high-saturated fat and cholesterol diet, similar to what most Americans eat. On this diet, these animals will develop atherosclerosis similar to humans.
After 6 months, the researchers studied the arteries of both groups of animals. Both groups showed development of atherosclerosis in their arteries but the exercising group significantly decreased the development of atherosclerosis (by about 30 percent).
Secondly, the exercising animals showed a significant improvement in plaque stability. They had less signs of inflammation and increased smooth muscle cells (58 percent increase) which help make the plaque stronger and less likely to rupture.
Based on this new research, regular, long-term exercise protects the heart by both of these vital changes for prevention:
Regular exercise also exerts other protective benefits to the cardiovascular system:
Regular exercise is good medicine for a healthy heart and brain. Aim for at least 20-30 minutes of aerobic physical activity most days of the week.
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