Health

Understanding Why Exercise Matters At All Ages

Published

4 years ago

May 28, 2021

Exercise isn’t something most people think about until they’re older or something compromises their health. They might gain weight or suffer from conditions ranging from diabetes to heart disease before they take heed to the significance of physical activity. Although regular exercise can help ease or even cure some of these problems, it’s best to use it as a preventative measure. Essentially, incorporating fitness into your every day routines is a practical way to prevent life-altering health issues.

Whether you prefer to hit the gym, dance, swim, play sports, or work out at home with an interactive gym wall mirror, indulging in regular physical activity can enhance your life in more ways than one.

Maintain Healthy Weight And Physique

Let’s start with the most commonly known reason to exercise – maintaining a healthy weight and physique. Physical activities help your body burn calories from your diet. It also helps to burn fat and build muscle for a tight and tone form. Developing an exercise routine that includes cardio and strength training will keep the excess pounds at bay.

Keeps The Heart Healthy

Your heart is one of the most vital and hardworking organs in the body. When it begins to fail, it reduces your quality of life and puts you at risk for everything from heart disease to a stroke. Exercise works to prevent this by increasing your good cholesterol levels and eliminating triglycerides, improving blood flow, strengthening the heart, and reducing your risk of severe heart conditions.

Boosts Your Mood

Your emotional health is also tied to regular exercise. The brain produces a hormone known as cortisol when you’re under a lot of stress. Too much cortisol can lead to mental health problems. Physical activity helps regulate your hormones by reducing cortisol levels and increasing endorphins and dopamine (feel-good hormones). Not to mention, when you’re in shape and otherwise healthy, you tend to feel a bit more confident about yourself.

Increases Energy Levels

You may be wondering how exercising (something exhausting) would somehow make you feel more energized, but the answer is simple. Working out increases oxygen levels in the body, enabling you to breathe better and enhancing heart function. Ultimately, a stronger heart and lungs make it easier for you to get through the day without feeling drained.

Releases Toxins

Whether you know it or not, your body is exposed to toxins every day, from the air you breathe to the foods you eat. When those toxins build up in the body, it can lead to serious medical problems. Getting active can reduce the chances of this happening to you. When you work out, your body begins to sweat, eliminating toxins. Just be sure to take a shower when you’re done to avoid clogging your pores.

Improved Muscle And Bone Health

Your muscles, bones, and joints are essential to get around. Unfortunately, as you age, the density, mass, and condition of these body parts weaken, leaving you vulnerable to conditions ranging from arthritis to fractures. On the other hand, weak muscles make it more challenging to walk, lift, and complete daily functions. Taking a walk or jog a few times a week makes a big difference. It strengthens muscles and bones, enabling you to be on the go without any problems.

Longer Lifespan

Who wouldn’t want to add an extra five, ten, or even twenty years to their life? Well, when you exercise regularly, you are doing just that. As you can see from above, including fitness in your routine reduces the risk of several medical problems. Essentially, your mind and body go through less stress and function more efficiently. Not to mention, if you’re not at risk of heart disease, chronic stress, or cancer (some of the most common killers), you can live longer.

Although exercise is ideal for soothing symptoms of certain health conditions, that’s not all it’s suitable for. Instead of using exercise as a reactionary measure, use it as a means to prevent affecting your physical and emotional well-being. Start exercising at least five times a week for 30 minutes to an hour to live a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.

Health

How Telehealth Works for Addicts in Recovery

Published

16 hours ago

March 6, 2025

Michelle Langton

Technology has been shaping healthcare for decades, and these days, tech advancements for the health sector are happening faster than ever before. Telehealth has emerged as one advancement that has touched every healthcare discipline, from cancer care to pediatrics. The innovative approach of telehealth is breaking down barriers to care and even reaching those who are struggling with substance abuse.

By leveraging digital platforms, recovery specialists can offer better access to therapy sessions, support groups, and medical consultations. These breakthroughs in accessibility are significant for people in healthcare deserts who are languishing under increased addiction rates and a lack of reliable treatment options.

Nick Padlo, founder and CEO of Sophros Recovery in Florida, has seen the benefit of telehealth for recovering addicts firsthand. “Individuals struggling with addiction can now find support and guidance if they do not have access to a treatment center near their home,” he explains. “These virtual programs are designed to provide comprehensive care, similar to traditional in-person treatment, but with the added convenience of digital accessibility.”

Here, we explore the benefits of telehealth for recovery and how clinicians and other professionals in the field can best utilize it for better outcomes.

An increased need for comprehensive recovery

The United States saw over 107,000 overdose deaths in 2023. This was a notable increase from previous numbers. The emergence of fentanyl as the drug of choice for many and the perpetuation of alcohol and other drug abuses have made access to comprehensive recovery even more important than ever.

“Understanding the options available can be the first step to recovery,” says Padlo. When people have easier access to help, they may be more apt to seek sobriety.

The pandemic saw a marked increase in substance abuse, laying bare the need for digital access to recovery resources. During the COVID shutdown, the crucial need for an alternative to in-person treatment was evident, and the benefits of such treatment options allowed clinicians and other professionals to carry this digital access to recovery care through the pandemic and into the post-COVID world.

In addition, those living in rural areas or areas with a lack of access to comprehensive recovery care often have needs on par with those in larger urban areas. Telehealth allows people to access the same professionals that those in big cities rely upon.

Studies have shown that continuity of care is critical to the success of addiction recovery. Telehealth can facilitate ongoing engagement with those in recovery, securing continuity of care and leading to better recovery outcomes.

A modern approach

“Online addiction recovery typically involves a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, educational sessions, and support groups, all conducted via video conferencing or other online tools,” explains Padlo. The flexibility of these programs allows participants to schedule them around their availability and considering their other commitments.

“We aim to mirror the effectiveness of traditional methods,” says Padlo. “We are providing the same level of care and support through a virtual format.”

Padlo stresses that online recovery can also reduce stigmas that are associated with seeking help for one’s addictions. When those in recovery can participate from the comfort of their own home, they may be more apt to commit to the recovery process.

People will need to consider their personal circumstances when determining if telehealth for addiction recovery is right for them. They may want to evaluate how comfortable they are with technology and whether they have a stable internet connection. Also, it helps to have a strong support system to keep one accountable since it can sometimes be easier to ignore digital meeting commitments.

However, Padlo cautions that those with severe addiction issues or co-occurring addictions may fare better with in-person detox and recovery.

Telehealth can be a powerful tool in the fight against addiction. The option offers a range of benefits, including easier access, privacy, and even savings for some. According to a recent study by the Oregon Health and Science University, telehealth may be just the solution to overcoming the stigma of rehab and recovery and radically reducing barriers for people who need it the most.

While telehealth for addiction recovery may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, and some people may require more intensive care and medical intervention, it has broken barriers for those in areas of limited access to recovery or seeking an option that offers more privacy.

As the field of virtual health delivery continues to evolve, the benefits of telehealth for addiction recovery will become clear. Telehealth provides comprehensive, discrete, and effective care for those starting or continuing their recovery journey.