Exercise as an
Antioxidant
When people
talk about antioxidant-packed foods, they almost always think of vegetables and
fruits, such as broccoli and berries. However, researchers from the University
of Virginia have shown that exercise can have a similar protective effect.
In the
study, 49 older adults (aged 60-72) performed a 6-month resistance training
program. Some of the subjects were overweight, and some were normal weight. At
the end of the program, researchers noted that exercise reduced levels of
harmful free radicals and homocysteine in both groups. Since homocysteine and
free radicals have been associated with cardiovascular disease, the resistance
training appeared to act as a protective factor against heart disease.
It's easy
to do resistance training at home. You can begin with bodyweight exercises or
you can use resistance bands, dumbbells, or even kettlebells. Stick to
multi-muscle movements like squats, rows, and presses, and you'll get the
maximum benefits in the minimum amount of time.
[Ed. Note:
Fitness expert Craig Ballantyne is the creator of the Turbulence Training for Fat Loss system.
For a free online source of information, motivation, and social support to help
you improve your health, lose weight, and get fit, sign up for ETR's free natural health e-letter.]
This
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