A study conducted by researchers from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has demonstrated the significant role of regular exercise in reducing inflammation, particularly among older adults.
This groundbreaking research highlights the potential of physical activity as a non-pharmacological approach to addressing chronic inflammation, commonly referred to as “inflammaging.”
The research, authored by Jeffrey A. Woods, Kenneth R. Wilund, Stephen A. Martin, and Brandon M. Kistler, was published in the journal Aging and Disease.
The primary aim of the study was to investigate the link between exercise and reduced systemic inflammation, a condition closely associated with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
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Understanding the problem: What is inflammaging?
As people age, they often experience a state of chronic low-grade inflammation known as “inflammaging.”
This condition is marked by elevated levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the bloodstream.
While inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation can damage tissues and organs over time. It contributes to the development of age-related diseases and is associated with increased mortality.
The researchers conducted an extensive review of existing studies, focusing on observational data and randomised clinical trials that examined the effects of physical activity on inflammatory biomarkers.
The types of exercise analysed included:
- Aerobic Training: Activities like walking, running, and cycling that improve cardiovascular health.
- Resistance Training: Strength-building exercises using weights or resistance bands.
The review also explored the underlying mechanisms by which exercise might reduce inflammation, such as fat reduction and immune system modulation.
Key findings: Exercise as an anti-inflammatory tool
The study identified several significant findings:
- Reduction in Inflammatory Markers: Regular aerobic and resistance training reduced levels of inflammatory markers, particularly CRP and IL-6.
- Impact of Fat Loss: A substantial portion of the anti-inflammatory benefits was linked to a reduction in visceral fat, which is known to secrete pro-inflammatory substances.
- Biological Mechanisms: Exercise promoted the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 from muscle tissues, during physical activity. This helped counteract systemic inflammation.
- Training Duration Matters: Longer-term exercise programs (six months or more) showed more pronounced benefits compared to shorter interventions.
- Resistance Training Effects: Though less studied, resistance training also showed positive outcomes, reducing localised inflammation in muscle tissues and contributing to overall systemic improvements.
This research provides robust evidence supporting the role of regular exercise in managing chronic inflammation. It highlights physical activity as a viable, accessible method for improving the health of older adults.
By engaging in sustained exercise routines, individuals can potentially mitigate the risks associated with inflammaging, reduce dependency on medications, and enhance their overall quality of life.
