Exercise, Vitamin E Could Slow Down Aging Process
Study Suggests Combination Keeps Bodies Healthy
POSTED: 12:04 p.m. EDT July 30, 2003
UPDATED: 12:14 p.m. EDT July 30, 2003
A University of Florida study suggests that the combination of exercise and vitamin E can slow down the aging process and help keep the body healthy.
Florida researchers say that the combination helps produce more antioxidants in the body, helping seniors ward off free radical damage.
Free radicals are molecules produced in the human body as a result of stress and everyday wear and tear which contribute to aging and disease, according to the study.
In additional studies it has reportedly been shown that free radicals play a part in the development of cancer, obstructed arteries, Alzheimer's disease and many other disorders.
Researchers divided 59 healthy elderly men and women ages 60 to 75 into an exercise group and a sedentary group then gave them either vitamin E or a sugar pill daily.
They found a significant increase in antioxidants in patients who exercised moderately three days a week and took 800 units of vitamin E a day.
"The vitamin E and the exercise helps prevent the occurrence of over 200 different human disease conditions that we normally associate with aging, so the benefits are tangible and intangible," Dr. James Jessup, UF, exercise researcher said.
Researchers say vitamin E also appears to boost antioxidants in the blood of elderly people who can't exercise. But those who can work out won't get extra boost from more exercise.
Results show that over exercising and taking excessive amounts of vitamin E offered little added benefit.
According to Jessup, if you get active a couple of days a week and take a vitamin E supplement, you will see some results.
Vitamin E has many health benefits and is easy to work into your daily diet. Leafy greens like spinach, and nuts are our main source of vitamin E. Fortified cereals are also reportedly a good source.
For more information on vitamin E and its benefits for the body, click here. And for additional information on the University of Florida's study, click here.
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