Delay Onset of High Cholesterol by Maintaining Fitness

According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, being regularly active delayed age-related cholesterol increases in men by up to 15-years.

Research indicates high cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease. Regular physical activity can reduce this risk. Being physically fit reduces arterial build-up by lowering LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol. It also lowers other risk factors for atherosclerosis and blood clots, such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, and stress.

Researchers for this particular study analyzed data from the Aerobics Center Longitudinal Study at the Cooper Clinic in Dallas, TX. This long term study took place from 1970 to 2006 and included 11,418 men between the ages of 20 to 90 years-old. The study began with each participant completing a treadmill exercise test to determine baseline aerobic fitness. Data measured also included total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol.

Those with low aerobic fitness were at greater risk of having high cholesterol in their early 30s, while participants with higher fitness levels did not experience high cholesterol until their 40s.

This study reviewed the impact of aerobic exercise. Examples of aerobic exercise include running, biking, brisk walking, hiking, swimming, soccer, tennis, and basketball. Strength training (lifting weights) is not a form of aerobic exercise.

Physical activity is also a great way to increase HDL cholesterol levels.

The “highly fit” men in this study were identified as individuals physically active for 150 minutes per week of moderate level activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous level activity.

Anyone can meet these goals and see the same benefits. This is equivalent to taking a brisk walk every day for just over 20 minutes or 30 minutes 5 days a week.

Physical activity plays a significant role in heart health and should be a part of your treatment plan. Discuss with your doctor. If you are currently inactive you will want to gradually increase your level of activity.

Maintaining fitness levels does not just delay cholesterol increases, but also impacts diabetes and blood pressure.

If you are working to lower cholesterol levels, sign up for the free e-course How to Lower Cholesterol in 8 Simple Steps at http://lowercholesterolwithlisa.com.

All the best,
Lisa Nelson RD
Health Pro for HealthCentral

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