Fitness

New Benefits of Exercise on Cardiovascular Health

Left ventricle dysfunction. A common heart problem in diabetics is reduced function of the left ventricle which pumps blood to the whole body. The ventricle becomes stiff and thus slows filling with blood. It also becomes weak and loses contractility. Exercise improves artery compliance (arteries become less stiff so they function better) and strengthens contractility of the left ventricle (improving its ability to pump more blood with each stroke).

Endothelial function. A big problem with diabetes and high blood pressure is endothelial dysfunction. The endothelium is the lining of the artery. It controls vital functions such as the ability of the artery to dilate when more blood is needed, the inflammatory response, and clotting mechanisms. Both high blood pressure and diabetes decrease endothelial function. Exercise improves both. In just 12 weeks in a group of pre-diabetics, exercise training showed significant improvement in endothelial function.

Stiff arteries. With aging and when hastened by high blood pressure and diabetes, the arteries become more stiff. Stiff arteries don't open up as well to let the blood flow through, thus contributing further to high blood pressure and poor circulation. In the Baltimore Longitudinal Study on aging, those who exercised regularly had less arterial stiffness. Other studies of older men with a lifetime of regular, strenuous exercise also showed less stiffness. By exercising, you cause the arteries to enlarge and contract as needed to meet blood flow demands. This exercise of the arteries helps prevent stiffness and improves circulation.

Exercise and inflammation. It's recognized now that inflammation is a major factor in initiating and hastening the accumulation of cholesterol plaques in the arteries. Inflammation is much more common in people who are overweight, sedentary, and have diabetes. People who exercise regularly have lower levels of inflammation. One study showed that after 6 months in a walking program, patients showed significant reductions in markers for inflammation.

Body composition. Obesity, especially excess abdominal fat, is strongly related to both high blood pressure and diabetes. In a recent randomized trial, patients with diabetes performed aerobic exercise 3 times a week for 2 months. They showed no loss in weight on the scales but had a 48% decrease in abdominal fat. They also had significant improvement in insulin sensitivity.

The bottom line is this. If you want healthy arteries and a good circulation, get regular exercise. This is even more important for people with high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Get your doctor's clearance, then aim for 30 minutes (and eventually as much as 60 minutes if needed) of daily activity such as brisk walking, cycling, or other moderate activities. Your heart and arteries will thank you!

Reference

Stewart KJ. Exercise training and the cardiovascular consequences of type 2 diabetes and hypertension, JAMA Oct. 2, 2002; 288:1622-31

Making Healthy Choices articles are written by Don Hall, DrPH, CHES president of LifeLong Health with contributions from associated health professionals. Content is general health information from evidence based research. It's purpose is not to treat disease or take the place of advice by your doctor but to promote healthy lifestyles. Persons with health problems should contact their physician for specific guidance.

Copyrighted 2002 by PrevMedix LLC. All rights reserved. Do not make unauthorized copies.

Updated: 12/17/02