John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

Last week we looked at helping overweight people improve their overall health while they start the process of losing weight. This week, we look at those at the opposite end of the spectrum; to those who are usually slimmer and often very fit. We assume that because someone can run a marathon they must be healthy. Indeed, it is possible to be very fit and very unhealthy.

The typical person who contacts me is someone who has maintained a high level of fitness and physical performance, to find they have developed unexpected health problems. On a minor scale these are persistent joint or muscle problems to more serious problems such as the sudden development of autoimmune and other fatigue-based syndromes where it appears their body has crashed. A common story is a very fit person who comes down with a bad flu and never recovers.

Our cells use food energy – glucose – and oxygen, to create the energy our body needs. High levels of exercise consume more oxygen and glucose and in doing so increase the amount of potentially dangerous free radical by-products from energy metabolism. When free radical output exceeds the capacity of cell antioxidants, this causes oxidative stress, which is the breeding ground for most chronic diseases.

Additionally, when you physically push yourself the body's repair systems are permanently engaged repairing the stress damage caused to tissue; and this always involves inflammation. Even permanent low grade inflammation when combined with oxidative stress can lead to rapid and permanent changes in our health. In the most severe cases, it really is ‘crash and burn'.

It is essential that fit people understand these inherent risks and ensure their body has sufficient micronutrients to prevent these destructive processes from damaging key body systems. Failing to control oxidative stress and associated inflammation can be disastrous. In particular, fit people need significantly higher intake of enzyme building trace minerals and biologically active antioxidants. A standard multi-vitamin is just not enough. If your health has suffered decline, do not despair, as there are many things we can do to help you recover lost ground. If you are fit and well you need to pay attention to these basics to avoid becoming another burnout victim.

John Arts is the founder of Abundant Health. For product information
visit www.abundant.co.nz If you have questions or would like a free
health plan phone 07 578 9051 or 0800 423 559 or email [email protected]

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