Two minutes to better health

Take another step for better health 

In recent years, study after study has piled up to shout the benefits of walking. In our The benefits of walking: follow these easy steps blog, we explained that walking can: 

Benefits in as little as 2 minutes 

Today, we are highlighting a study from the Sports Medicine journal that shares walking for just two minutes after eating can help prevent blood sugar from spiking. This is important because drastic blood sugar spikes and falls can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The study states that muscles need glucose (sugar) to function, and by walking, you get the glucose out of your bloodstream, where too much can lead to harm.  

Some studies cite a slightly higher number, like 10 minutes, but they agree that moving after eating is a good thing. A simple walk versus a high-intensity activity can help you avoid cramps and reap benefits.  

More benefits from walking 

It is likely the benefits in this study have already convinced you to get moving. However, if you need a little more inspiration, consider the research cited on the AARP website. The study states that taking 8.000 steps a day on average can lower your mortality by 51% compared to people who average 4,000 steps a day. The study also says the 8,000 steps don’t have to be rigorous. Even better, it shares it is never too late. According to the article, becoming fit later in life can reduce the risk of a deadly stroke by half.  

Considering all the benefits of walking, with the relatively low cost of equipment needed, a decent pair of walking shoes, it seems like the perfect form of exercise.  

Before starting a new workout, please talk to your doctor to determine an appropriate level at which you should start at and how quickly you should increase your steps and effort.