Heart disease: Exercising for a healthy heart
Why do I need a regular exercise program?
Getting regular exercise is important because it takes only a short period of inactivity to weaken your muscles and cardiovascular system.
Regular exercise also helps:
- Reduce chest pain (angina) and symptoms of coronary artery disease.
- Control cholesterol and triglyceride levels, especially when combined with lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, not smoking, and reducing stress.
- Reduce blood pressure. When combined with other lifestyle changes, such as diet and learning to handle stress, regular exercise can decrease your risk for heart attack.
- Reduce or control your weight, which can decrease your risk for coronary artery disease and diabetes.
- Reduce stress, lift your mood, and decrease depression and anxiety.
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| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: May 29, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine Robert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology Ruth Schneider, MPH, RD - Diet and Nutrition | |
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