Physical activity: a scientifically proven treatment for obesity, depression, and diabetes

For many chronic conditions, rest has long been the standard of care, but today we are witnessing a true paradigm shift: scientific studies show that physical activity (PA) has undeniable benefits for people with chronic diseases. These benefits are all the greater when PA is introduced early after diagnosis. Consequently, physical activity—even for patients in advanced stages of their diseases—must be an integral part of the treatment of chronic diseases. It should be prescribed systematically and as early as possible in the care pathway for each of the conditions studied. Even more impressive is that the scientific literature now demonstrates with certainty that certain conditions can be cured through physical activity alone, provided that the patient commits to it long-term. The expert panel of the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm) recommends that physical activity be prescribed before any drug treatment—that is, as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate depression, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and peripheral arterial disease.

Author(s): Chenu Catherine, Fleury Laurent

Publishing year: 2021

Pages: 50-53

Health in Action, 2021, n° 456, p. 50-53

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