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Dr. Casey Means: 5 Early Warning Signs of Disease & What Your Body is REALLY Trying to Tell You

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

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The Importance of Walking for Health

Walking is a powerful yet often underestimated activity that can significantly reduce the risk of various health issues, including premature mortality, depression, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. Research from reputable journals highlights that taking 7,000 to 12,000 steps daily can lead to these benefits, with the number of steps serving as a proxy for overall movement throughout the day. Biologically, regular low-grade movement like walking positively influences cellular functions; it aids in the transport of glucose channels to the cell membrane, enhancing glucose uptake and mitochondrial activity. Consistent muscle contractions from frequent walking or short bouts of physical activity promote better glucose control, contrasting sharply with the health implications for those who remain sedentary for most of the day and only exercise intensely for a brief period. Therefore, while structured workouts are beneficial, cultivating a lifestyle that incorporates regular low-grade movement through walking is crucial for optimal health, effectively cutting the risks of debilitating conditions in half.

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