Final answer:
Exercise has a wide range of benefits for individuals with hypertension, including lowering blood pressure, improving kidney function, reducing insulin secretion, and increasing good cholesterol levels. These changes contribute to cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Engaging in daily physical activity is significantly beneficial in managing hypertension and enhancing quality of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research has demonstrated that exercise has multiple beneficial effects for individuals with hypertension. The beneficial effects include lowering blood pressure, normalizing kidney function, decreasing insulin secretion, and increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), which is known as “good” cholesterol. Therefore, the correct answer to the question about the beneficial effect(s) of exercise for hypertensives is e) All of the above.
Exercise reduces cardiovascular disease risk factors by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing excess body weight. It also enhances the mechanical efficiency of the heart and increases exercise tolerance. Notably, engaging in at least 30 minutes of noncontinuous exercise daily can significantly lower the risk of heart attack and contribute to vascular homeostasis.
The myokines released by contracting muscles during physical activity have constructive systemic effects, including anti-inflammatory properties, which further support cardiovascular health. Additionally, regular aerobic exercise has been likened to pharmaceutical antidepressants for treating mild-to-moderate depression, highlighting its mental health benefits.