27. Walking can help you live longer
Lack of physical activity can lead to premature death. Not exercising shortens life expectancy. Walking reduces the risk of many diseases that can shorten life. These include type 2 diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, digestive disorders, memory loss and hormone imbalances. Obesity can lead to these diseases. Walking can help obese people lose weight and prevent the development of these life-threatening diseases. Walkers lose weight by participating in this enjoyable exercise.
Several studies have shown a cause-and-effect relationship between regular exercise and longer life. Exercise like walking can prevent strokes and heart attacks, which are leading causes of premature death. Even people who smoke can benefit from regular walking or other exercise. However, if they quit smoking completely, their chances of prolonging their lives will be further improved.
28. Walking can raise your good cholesterol levels
When people hear the word cholesterol, they immediately think of heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol contributes to these potentially fatal events. However, there are two types of cholesterol. Often referred to as good cholesterol and bad cholesterol, the presence of bad cholesterol can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The medical term for bad cholesterol is low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
It builds up in veins and arteries in the form of fatty deposits that restrict or block blood flow to and from the heart. The correct term for good cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL spreads through the body by removing LDL from the blood. HDL absorbs LDL and carries it to the liver, where it is destroyed. Physical activity, such as walking, increases the flow of HDL around the body. HDL is better able to find and absorb LDL and carry it to the liver.
29. Walking can reduce the incidence of acid reflux
Acid reflux is very painful. This happens when stomach acid enters the esophagus. The esophagus is not as tolerant to acid as the stomach. Therefore, the acid will burn the esophagus, which is very uncomfortable. It’s normal to experience a strange kind of acid reflux, especially after eating too much at the dinner table. Taking a walk after overeating can calm the stomach and prevent reflux attacks.
Persistent acid reflux may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). One of the main reasons for ERGE is being overweight. Because of the weight, there is pressure in the stomach. This forces the acid from the stomach up into the esophagus. Losing excess weight relieves pressure on the stomach and stops forcing up stomach acid. Walking has been shown to help you lose weight.
30. Walking can help reduce PMS and menopause symptoms
preenstrual syndrome is a type of preenstrual syndrome. Menopause occurs when a woman reaches the end of her reproductive cycle and the fertility system begins to shut down. Fluctuations in hormone levels are characteristic of both conditions. The main hormone that can go up or down is estrogen. Estrogen is a female hormone necessary to maintain the stability of the reproductive system. Fluctuations in estrogen before menstruation can lead to back pain, irritability and headaches. For menopausal women, choking, night sweats, and vaginal dryness may occur.
For both conditions, mild to moderate, low-impact activities are recommended to relieve some symptoms. Improving blood circulation can help reduce the pain associated with cramps. The mental benefits of walking may help ease the emotional roller coaster associated with PMS and menopause. Keeping your weight low can also reduce the severity of symptoms.