Fitness...we all know that maintaining good physical fitness can help us lose weight and lower our risk of cardiovascular disease, but there are some new studies out that have shown some surprising benefits of exercise.
Eyes
Exercise increases blood flow to many areas of the body, including the eyes. Cambridge University conducted a study that showed regular exercise reduces risk of low ocular-perfusion pressure. This is an important risk factor for glaucoma since it can lead to irreversible vision loss. Any amount of exercise is better than nothing. Even less than an hour of aerobic activity each day, such as walking, can help make the difference.
Migraines
Medication only relieves or covers up the symptoms of a migraine. Migraines are not normal and can be caused by many different things, such as hormones or mechanical issues. Mechanical issues, such as a vertebral subluxation (misaligned vertebrae), can only be fixed by mechanical methods such as a chiropractic adjustment. Advil, Tylenol, or other medication cannot make the vertebrae move back into its proper position. The good news is that there is another natural way to help relieve migraines.
The journal Cephalalgia found that exercising for 40 minutes three times a week was just as effective at preventing migraines as taking a prescription migraine drug everyday or participating in guided relaxation techniques daily. The likely explanation? Exercise has stress-relieving benefits and this can help relax tense muscles as well as relax the mind.
A Sharper Mind
University of South Carolina researchers have discovered that exercising increases the number of mitochondria (power producers in cells) in the brain, which can lead to improved brain function. This provides hope for treatment of psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. To sharpen your thinking skills you only need 30 minutes of vigorous exercise most days of the week.
