The Dangers of a Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyles are becomeingthe norm in the United States, and the likelihood of complete physical inactivity increases as we age.
A recent meta-analysis, published in the journal Sports Medicine, of existing studies on the effects of prolonged sitting revealed that most of us spend about 75% of our day seated, and that this behavior is linked to an increased rate of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, depression, as well as overall mortality.
It has long been known that sitting for long periods of time with few bouts of activity reduces insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, and increases the level of triglycerides in the blood. Moreover, it has been established that exercise, even such moderate exercise such as walking, releases endorphins in the brain that help to reduce depression.
However, this study found that physical activity of any intensity every 30 minutes or so was shown to immediately reduce concentrations of glucose and insulin in the blood. This effect lasted up to nine hours after a meal. Similarly, levels of triglycerides are also lowered, though this effect is not as immediate as the effect on blood glucose levels; triglyceride levels started to lower approximately 12 hours after physical activity.
Surprisingly, the beneficial changes are unaffected by the intensity of the exercise, the age of the participant, the weight of the participant, or the type of food consumed by the participants.
It is well-known that if a person exercises for 30 minutes a day, it makes no difference from a cardiovascular point of view whether they exercise three times a day for 10 minutes each time, or once a day for 30 minutes.
At Atlantic Coast Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, located in scenic Lakewood, NJ, our goal is to offer recreational activities that stimulate both mind and body. We fashion each day’s recreation schedule with the primary purpose of encouraging social interaction and promoting physical health and fitness. To accommodate different interests and personal preferences, our Activities Director designs flexible schedules, with a variety of stimulating and engaging activity options.
Atlantic Coast is a beautiful nursing home and rehab center, situated on beautifully landscaped grounds. Atlantic Coast provides the comfortable and pleasant living experience that is essential to ensuring optimal clinical outcomes. We have strived to create an environment and program that truly enhances quality of life, thus promoting recuperation, health, and well-being.
Our modern facility features spacious living spaces that are impeccably decorated and furnished. Our residents are pampered with the finest amenities, including free WIFI, flat screen cable television and state-of-the-art mechanical beds for individualized comfort.
Our master chef and the entire staff of culinary experts prepare delicious meals to please even the most discerning palates. Our meals are not only delicious, they are also elegantly served, using fine china and utensils. In addition, we have a registered dietician to supervise the process to ensure that all meals conform to the individual dietary restrictions and requirements for every resident.
Atlantic Coast is conveniently located in scenic Lakewood, NJ, close to major medical centers and just minutes from area highways.
Read our reviews on senioradvisor.com, caring.com, and wellness.com to hear what our residents and their families have to say.
Or better yet, come see for yourself: Contact us to schedule a tour by calling 732-364-7100, or by clicking here.