Walking for longevity: Benefits you didn't know about
Photo: Doctors explained the health benefits of walking (Freepik)
Walking is one of the most accessible and versatile forms of physical exercise. Afternoon walks offer numerous benefits for both the mind and body, according to Best Life Online.
PhD Andrew Jagim shared that the benefits of afternoon walks for longevity are particularly useful for men and older adults. According to the data, this is also a great way to improve both physical and mental energy.
Physical fitness
Walking is a gentle cardio exercise with low impact that can help achieve a higher level of physical fitness.
Regular brisk walking can provide many of the same benefits as more intense exercises like running. For example, just 21 minutes of walking a day can reduce the risk of a heart attack by 30%. Walking also burns calories and reduces waistline size, but it is also important for the lymphatic and immune systems.
Psychological benefits
A walk can work wonders for your mental state.
According to psychologist Craig Kain, walking can help regulate emotions. Sometimes, feelings take over, and a person can lose emotional balance.
Walking can boost dopamine levels – the "happiness hormone" – and lower cortisol levels – the "stress hormone," helping to restore the brain.
Stabilizing blood sugar levels
A walk after lunch can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Food is broken down in the stomach into simple sugars, which are then released into the bloodstream.
Walking can help prevent the sudden spike in blood sugar that often occurs immediately after a meal, as muscles become activated and begin to absorb glucose from the blood.
Calorie and fat burning
Brisk walking is excellent for burning fat, especially around the abdomen. The number of calories burned during a walk depends on the pace and distance, but any amount of calories burned can help you reach your goal.
Importance of consistency
No matter what time of day you choose to go for a walk, remember that consistency is key. To make walking a habit, incorporate it into your daily routine. Only then will it begin to bring health benefits.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
