Can exercise slow the aging process

Posted by admin in Blood pressure on 09 19th, 2009 | one response

A good reason to keep up with exercise: “Age is the major risk factor
for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and this is attributable in part to
stiffening of large elastic arteries and development of vascular
endothelial dysfunction (e.g., impaired endothelium-dependent dilation,
EDD). In contrast, regular aerobic exercise is associated with reduced risk
of CVD. Endurance exercise-trained middle-aged/older adults demonstrate
lower large elastic artery stiffness and greater EDD than their sedentary
peers. With daily brisk walking, previously sedentary middle-aged/older
adults show reduced stiffness and improved EDD. The mechanisms underlying
the effects of regular aerobic exercise on large elastic artery stiffness
with aging are largely unknown, but likely include changes to the
composition of the arterial wall. Enhanced EDD in older adults who exercise
is mediated by increased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability associated with
reduced oxidative stress. Arteries from old rodents that undergo aerobic
exercise training demonstrate increased expression and activity of
endothelial NO synthase, reduced oxidative damage associated with reduced
expression and activity of the oxidant enzyme NADPH oxidase, and increased
activity of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Aerobic exercise
also may protect arteries with aging by increasing resistance to the
effects of other CVD risk factors like LDL-cholesterol. Habitual aerobic
exercise is an effective strategy to combat arterial aging.”