MEDICAL INSIDER-DR BRYAN
Occupational Hazards
PART 10
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): We are still in our discussion of the topic, OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS. You have said, Dr. Bryan, that swimming has health benefits. It could keep your heart rate up and could take some of the impact stress off your body. It will also train you to build endurance and cardiovascular fitness. Moreover, it will help you maintain a healthy weight, healthy heart and lungs. So, what other benefits does swimming have as an exercise. Dr. Bryan?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: Like what I have said, it can improve cardiovascular health. It can also strengthen your muscles and would allow you to manage your weight. You will also notice that when you swim, you would reduce stress and anxiety. More importantly, swimming will lower the risk of chronic diseases; it will improve lung function. In fact, studies say that swimming will improve your sleep quality aside from promote stronger bones.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Is swimming also good for mental health? Does it promote good mental health?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: All forms of exercise release hormones that make you relaxed and good. These hormones will increase positivity that will result into a feelin of wellbeing and happiness. In fact, research will show that swimming will relieve you from stress.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Wow, that’s interesting
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: Here are other interesting facts that I have read about swimming: In one hour, swimming burns about 40% more calories than biking; swimming burns about 30% more calories than running per hour; swimming strengthens the heart and lungs; more than half of competitive swimmers experience shoulder pain; and swimming can improve exercise-induced asthma.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): Dr. Bryan, is it good to swim everyday as a workout?
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: I believe, it is! Just imagine the burning of calories and the impact on your lungs that swimming will bring. And don’t forget the weight loss.Body toning is another positive effect of swimming as a workout.
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): You also said a while ago that swimming is a good stress reliever.
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: I said so. I have also read that according to the survey, 74 percent of respondents said that swimming helps release stress and tension; 68 percent of respondents said being in the water helps them feel good about themselves; 70 percent of respondents said swimming helps them feel mentally refreshed. And by the way, I have also read this: “Several studies in animals have shown an association between swimming as exercise and increased levels of BDNF in your brain. These higher levels can have wide-ranging, positive effects on cognition, memory, and mood regulation, all functions of a healthy brain that’s aging well.”
The Bohol Tribune (TBT): That is a remarkable information, Dr. Bryan.
Dr. Bryan Cepedoza: It is. So let’s continue to swim nuy let us remember the hazards behind swimming.(To be continued)