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Enhanced Fitness Has Anti-inflammatory Effects

 

 

 

 

 

 

 The benefits of a high fitness level are well established, but new benefits continue to emerge. The latest benefit is that regular exercise helps reduce systemic inflammation as measured by C-reactive protein. C-reactive protein (CRP) is now considered an important risk factor for coronary heart disease. A high CRP level increases the risk for coronary heart disease.

The Cooper Institute in Dallas Texas measured the C-reactive protein levels of 722 men and also tested their fitness levels on a treadmill. They found that fit men had lower levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation. Those men who were least fit (bottom 20%) had an average CRP level of 1.64 mg/L. Those who were most fit (top 20%) had the lowest levels of CRP (0.70 mg/dL), a 57% decrease1.

Those men who were most fit were 83% less likely to have a high CRP level than those men who were least fit. The relationship between CRP levels and fitness remains even after adjusting for obesity and waist girth. This study helps explain why fit people are less likely to have heart disease.

A study on women showed similar results. Fit women had lower CRP levels than unfit women2.

Bottom line. Regular exercise along with losing excess weight and stopping smoking are good ways to reduce inflammation in the body and to prevent early heart disease.

 

 

Reference

1. Church TS, et al. Associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and C-reactive protein in men, Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, Nov 1, 2002; 22:1869-76
2. LaMonte MJ, et al. Cardiorespiratory fitness and C-reactive protein among a tri-ethnic sample of women, Circulation Jul 23, 2002; 106:403-6


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