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Regular physical activity really does boost immune system in older men

A novel study found that regular moderate physical activity significantly improves the immune response in older men, with increased anti-KLH IgM, IgG, and delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. This suggests that a physically active lifestyle can maintain optimal T cell-mediated responses, particularly during times of immunocompromise.

SourceAmerican Physiological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Physiology·DateAug 24, 2004

Hormone wants to keep body at weight set point

Researchers found that ghrelin was significantly elevated with weight loss in exercising subjects, indicating a potential role for ghrelin in returning the body to a prior set-point for body weight. The study suggests that exercise training itself has little impact on ghrelin levels.

Exercise more critical than calcium for adolescent bones

A recent study suggests that exercise is the predominant lifestyle determinant of bone strength in young women, with daily calcium intake showing little impact on adult bone mass. The research found that physical activity accounted for between 16% and 22% of variation in hip bone mineral density and bending strength.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateJun 9, 2004

Exercising after menopause may help reduce bone loss

Exercise has been shown to improve physical fitness, lower back pain, and cholesterol levels in early postmenopausal women. After 26 months, the exercise group experienced significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in bone loss compared to the control group.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 24, 2004

Exercise sharpens focus, decision-making among aging adults

A six-month aerobic exercise program improved cognitive performance on a decision-making task in older adults by reducing behavioral conflict. The study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure changes in brain activity in middle-frontal and superior parietal regions, which were associated with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 16, 2004

Modest exercise can prevent weight gain

A randomized controlled trial suggests that modest exercise, such as 30 minutes of daily walking, can not only prevent weight gain but also lead to additional loss of weight and fat. The study found a dose-response effect between the amount of exercise and decreases in measurements of central obesity and total body fat mass.

SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 12, 2004

Even moderate amounts of exercise can prevent weight gain

A recent study found that even moderate amounts of exercise can help prevent weight gain in overweight individuals. The research, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, suggests that more intense physical activity is necessary for weight maintenance and that a modest amount of exercise can reverse positive caloric imbalances.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateJan 12, 2004

Self-management improves course of low back pain

A self-management program improved mental and physical functioning in low-income adults with low back pain. The study, funded by the NIH and VA, showed empowering individuals to deal with their pain through exercise and behavior changes significantly reduced symptoms.

SourceIndiana University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateDec 2, 2003

Self-management program helps patients with acute low back pain

A self-management program developed by Indiana University researchers significantly reduced disability, improved mental functioning, and increased physical activity among patients with acute low back pain. The program focused on boosting patient confidence and motivation to incorporate daily activities that alleviate symptoms.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateNov 24, 2003

News tips for Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2003

Cardiac researchers report improved blood flow to ischemic heart muscle using granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), a potential new treatment for intractable ischemia. Meanwhile, ICD patients may be safer with vigorous exercise, while daytime sleepiness significantly affects the quality of life of angina patients.