They have discovered that muscle work activates a gene, which facilitates the release of large amounts of the signalling substance Interleukin-6 (IL-6), which affects liver and fat metabolism. IL-6 also has an inflammation-inhibiting effect in several common illnesses such as cardio-vascular diseases, cancer, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and dementia.
For a long time the positive effects of daily exercise have been spoken of, both as a preventive measure and to alleviate many ailments. This is also true for stress and depression. Now what we saw can be proven. As it would appear, IL-6 makes the body's cells produce a protein called metallothionein. This protein, with a high content of zinc, copper, and sulphur stimulates all cells in the body, including the brain in such a way that we learn and remember better in those periods of time when be exercise regularly. Metallothionein is also thought to have a protective effect against sclerosis.
IL-6 is furthermore capable of making the muscles utilize sugar better. This is especially interesting for overweight people. When the muscle cells use the energy more effectively, less insulin is needed, and it is insulin which is responsible for storing fat in the body.
The conclusion is obvious: Besides preventing chronic diseases, daily exercise also improves performance on the sports field and the work place.
Minimum requirements
Children: 90 minutes of daily exercise
Adults: 30 minutes of daily exercise
