Can DIY and gardening help you live longer?

Conclusion This study found that in a population-based sample of older adults (aged 60), high levels of non-exercise physical activity, or ‘an active daily life’ was associated with better levels of cardiovascular risk factors. When followed over time, it was found an active daily life was associated with approximately 30% reduced risk of both a cardiovascular event (stroke, angina, heart attack) and death from any cause. These associations were seen after adjusting for regular exercise, and for a number of other factors that could explain the association seen (confounders). This study was a cross-sectional and cohort study. This means that it cannot show that high levels of non-exercise physical activity caused the reduction in risk of cardiovascular events or death. The researchers attempted to adjust for various confounders. Though it is still likely that the reduced cardiovascular risk observed with increased activity is not due to activity alone, but is being influenced by a variety of other health and lifestyle factors.  There are other limitations. In this study, non-exercise physical activity and exercise were both self-reported. It is also unclear how applicable these results will be to people of other age groups, or to people of other cultures. For example, for people living in towns and cities, the opportunity to pick mushrooms and berries is a tad limited. Finally, this study should not be taken as proof that daily activities such as gardening are as benef...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Heart/lungs Source Type: news