Archbold Medical Center| Archives Magazine | Spring 2019

20 ARCHBOLD MEDICAL CENTER HOW CAN YOU feel better, have more energy and add years to your life? The simple answer is exercise. The health benefits of physical activity and exercise are numerous, and almost everyone benefits from exercise. CHILDREN The benefits of exercise are seen even in kids, and the healthy habits that develop early can lead to healthier and longer lives. “Active children tend to have stronger muscles and bones, leaner bodies and are at less risk of becoming overweight,” said Dinesh Patel, MD, pediatrician at Camilla Pediatric Center. “They also have a lower chance of getting type 2 diabetes.” For kids, exercise doesn’t mean going to the gym. Exercise is playing tag at recess, or going to dance class or soccer practice. It is recommended that kids and teens get 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. Toddlers and preschool-age children should have 60 to 120 minutes of active play every day. “One of the best ways to ensure that kids are getting the appropriate amount of exercise is to limit screen time,” said Dr. Patel. “Too much screen time or inac- tivity and not enough physical activity can increase a child’s risk of childhood obesity.” YOUNG ADULTS Research shows that routine exercise is an important key to reducing the risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. “Adults should have a mix of aerobic activity and strength training,” said Grady Floyd, MD, hospitalist at Archbold Memorial Hospital. “Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aero- bic activity a week, along with strength training exercises two times a week.” Aerobic exercises can include a brisk walk, swimming, running and dancing. Strength training can include the use of weight machines, body weight exercises, resistance tubing or bands—or even activities like rock climbing. “Reducing sitting time is important for adults too,” said Dr. Floyd. “The more hours you sit each day, the higher your risk of metabolic problems, which can impact your health and longevity, even if you achieve the recommended amount of daily physical activity. Break up sitting time with short walks.” DURING PREGNANCY Exercise during pregnancy is import- ant and can help with some common Exercise discomforts—and even help prepare your body for labor and delivery. “Overall, exercise is safe during preg- nancy,” said Fiona Kehoe, MD, hospitalist at Archbold Memorial Hospital. “The rule of thumb is that if you were physically active before you were pregnant, it is likely safe to remain active during pregnancy.” It is recommended that pregnant women avoid activities where falling is likely; exercises that may cause any abdominal trauma; activities that require extensive jumping, hopping, skipping or bouncing; exercise in hot, humid weather; and exercising to the point of exhaustion. “There are also many benefits to exer- cising during pregnancy,” said Dr. Kehoe. “Physical activity can help reduce back- aches, bloating and swelling and may help prevent gestational diabetes. It can also increase energy and help you sleep better.” While there are benefits of physical activity during pregnancy, patients should talk to their doctor to see if they have any limitations. OLDER ADULTS As people age, they look forward to the easy days of retirement. While some activities and duties may ease up as you at any age and stage Dinesh Patel, MD Pediatrician Grady Floyd, MD Hospitalist Fiona Kehoe, MD Hospitalist