Dubai
Brisk walking can improve artery health in people with Type-2 diabetes, as stated by a recent study conducted by the University of Sydney in Australia. The exercise has a significantly beneficial effect on the “stiffness and the function of the smooth muscles in the arteries”.
Another study by US-based Harvard Medical School states that walking reduced the risk of cardiovascular events by 31 per cent.
The study goes on to state that walking improves other risk factors such as cholesterol, blood pressure, obesity and mental stress. Walking with other moderate exercise programs also help protect against dementia, depression and even colon cancer.
According to the UK Stroke Association, a 30-minute walk at moderate intensity can help regulate blood pressure and bring down the incidence of stroke in hypertensive patients by nearly 27 per cent.
Exercise has remained a crucial step of treatment recommended by health professionals to manage the array of complications associated with diabetes. However, the study published by Harvard Medical School states that, “walking doesn’t get the respect it deserves, either for its health benefits, its value for transportation, or its role in recreation”.
It recommends making walking a “part of your daily life”. There are many ways a person can do that. Walk to the train instead of driving there. Instead of spending time looking for the closest parking spot to the entrance of a building, park farther away and walk to your destination. Go for a walk at lunchtime.
